tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49857871468517979102024-03-18T11:03:20.092+08:00thiscachemeixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-45665207249490307442019-04-18T12:00:00.000+08:002019-04-18T15:37:32.029+08:00Understanding #AvocadoToast and Millennials<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZI9-pkIix9WhZY8VYPyWiBMZklLvRdIwnZvwj9TDcASGCKJvMg6WCp9DkYE0wiHvkpAapI7CqBjb2nt7orw9wPAaWwoaX5OFRb_ylHbVM8MVGY02kEDRoSvRiLkjWXC-oaVrtctX8Yw/s1600/backpack-beach-dock-709854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZI9-pkIix9WhZY8VYPyWiBMZklLvRdIwnZvwj9TDcASGCKJvMg6WCp9DkYE0wiHvkpAapI7CqBjb2nt7orw9wPAaWwoaX5OFRb_ylHbVM8MVGY02kEDRoSvRiLkjWXC-oaVrtctX8Yw/s400/backpack-beach-dock-709854.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
This might be the first to many other posts, or this might just be a singular, random one out of the blue. Well, ever since my last post in July 2018, my life had been stretched, rolled out flat and kneaded over and over again before being thrown into a whirlpool, together with responsibilities, lots of paperwork, and inefficiencies.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With such a job, it is definitely difficult for me to commit to a writing plan, especially with the mountain of stuff that was thrown into my way... But at least for today, for this particular post, I do feel compelled, motivated and excited to have it written and completed.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To be honest, I was inspired to write this post after going back to read a reader's comment on a previous post of mine: <i><a href="https://thiscache.blogspot.com/2017/05/finding-my-life-purpose.html" target="_blank">Finding my Life Purpose</a>.</i></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
<span style="color: orange; font-size: large;">You never know where life is going to take you. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: orange; font-size: large;">So everything I do, </span><span style="color: orange; font-size: large;">I just take it one day at a time, and it always leads you to the right place. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-- Kyle Massey</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Back in 2017 I was a graduate, fresh out of university, and desperate to find a job that I could apply my knowledge on and at the same time, could give my life some purpose. Unfortunately, problems comes into picture when I start to search for jobs.... and I found that the jobs that were suited to my field of study? <b>does not</b> give my life meaning. You might say that I’m picky and entitled for wanting a jobs that screams "Passion", "Work-Life Balance", "Good Starting Salary" and "Social Impact"... and it may all suddenly make sense to you once you found out that I am part of the group of people now commonly known as the "Millennials"; also previously known as "Gen Y".<br />
<br />
Here in Singapore, they also label us as "Snowflakes" or the "Strawberry Generation".<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrIWo2wLgHtwLg1IUi77Sri6hSQ0HhKuVm1q4KVOmKIYdjRa1yU2w0tgoMSCGmSiORO7Y4j4y5a_8M_a2CDsTUlLUfgAsa8LleTtuqezhlclvioOhPiBiSV72QfMJOabNDNjU3X72sJoo/s1600/Strawberry-Generation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="314" data-original-width="600" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrIWo2wLgHtwLg1IUi77Sri6hSQ0HhKuVm1q4KVOmKIYdjRa1yU2w0tgoMSCGmSiORO7Y4j4y5a_8M_a2CDsTUlLUfgAsa8LleTtuqezhlclvioOhPiBiSV72QfMJOabNDNjU3X72sJoo/s400/Strawberry-Generation.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Millennials a.k.a. Strawberry Generation</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To the Baby Boomers / Gen X readers out there, you might, at this point think that the "quarter-life crisis" I experienced back in 2017 was unjustified and uncalled for... simply because I was too young and shouldn't be affected by the challenges thrown to me in life. It may come as a surprise to you, but this is a very real problem. According to a study last year in 2018 conducted by LinkedIn, they found that four in five young professionals in Singapore have reportedly experienced a "quarter-life crisis". To further put this into context, "Millennials" makes up about 31.5 percent of the global population this year. So imagine the number of young people having a mental fight between our “needs” and “wants”.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6UXI_O7cq-PFwmcmCoCb8-FUtJyOiUP1in-x1w1hWYHw49DjtXG8eAxPb9dFMzCwuVochn6Hhg6CLEIEn7kfNPqwTNvz4S7kjLdYgv1JsTbdCTPt6P1EMzcNdUydFF1kAnblWYuTVmSk/s1600/2011-05-27-basic_needs.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="544" data-original-width="889" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6UXI_O7cq-PFwmcmCoCb8-FUtJyOiUP1in-x1w1hWYHw49DjtXG8eAxPb9dFMzCwuVochn6Hhg6CLEIEn7kfNPqwTNvz4S7kjLdYgv1JsTbdCTPt6P1EMzcNdUydFF1kAnblWYuTVmSk/s400/2011-05-27-basic_needs.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">People's perspective of the things they need have changed.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
In the minds of many millennials, our lives are filled with uncertainty, anxiety and concern. Part of this stems from the fact that we are too privileged and don’t know real hardship. (<span style="color: orange;">No, that’s not true and please know that i’m kidding</span>) However, I do think that it is true that Millennials are earning less than any generation before. I mean, when you consider the wage stagnation coupled with rising living expenses, the ratio of < wage : living expenses > is indeed smaller. Personally, I struggle with getting job fulfillment, money making and investments... so in response to all these concerns that are out of my control, I find myself focusing on the other parts of my life which I can control, for example, my lifestyle choices.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOSl5XqZ1YqHzLPMvOVC4QrVikNyUUQMfu4kj13PK8L9ysuVwiZJqgMybgkh3ddFRhBZ9rSPG29-x91-pEwL4HuAyImApohFHBf8s_IF9Aj5P9UAJF10oFMBj6N9j0l9wkeJqXPzjngj0/s1600/40070fde7200006bf5b69d2c3c2024b2-5926d340c6558__700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="472" data-original-width="700" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOSl5XqZ1YqHzLPMvOVC4QrVikNyUUQMfu4kj13PK8L9ysuVwiZJqgMybgkh3ddFRhBZ9rSPG29-x91-pEwL4HuAyImApohFHBf8s_IF9Aj5P9UAJF10oFMBj6N9j0l9wkeJqXPzjngj0/s400/40070fde7200006bf5b69d2c3c2024b2-5926d340c6558__700.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">What People Think Millennials Are Like Vs What They Are Actually Like</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
At this point, after working and struggling in the industry for 2 years, I have still yet to find a job that gives my life purpose. Why? You might ask. Simple. Because I have been working in the same company for 2 years.<br />
<br />
Despite dreading to go to work on a daily basis. Despite not being satisfied with my pay check. Despite all the negativity... I pushed and stayed on.<br />
<br />
Some people might diss the mental fight I have in my mind as ridiculous. Others might say that I should be thanking my lucky stars for even having a job. But to my millennial friends, they understand my pain, and pray that one day I’ll be brave enough to move ahead and do something that will fill my heart and fuel my passions.<br />
<br />
In this time and age where pollution, extinction, and various environmental issues graze the covers of our papers, and appear in our Facebook pages... it just seems to me that wealth and power <b>aren't the most important things </b>in the world anymore (though I cannot deny that it is still somewhat important). We always think that we are the smartest living creatures on this planet, but honestly our brilliance has led us to our downfall. For our own convenience and comfort, we forsake the rest of the creatures sharing this planet with us, and we lack real consideration for the repercussions of our actions. A plastic spoon, another paper cup. All these are resources and energy wasted, things that are produced for us to use for a brief moment.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh53bd22Q9pGoLwjcIh74bjBJDQVBbDH9JS5BGkgfjzBCdg-floa9iwf3mICUPEeye3PRd3BAsIVSfAT8qziZ70CglNJCkMq0vWcP-r4zTY0vMFRak4zxAwqcT0jaKgQccY-IOooW2rVjk/s1600/Sp181201ce-small-800x600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh53bd22Q9pGoLwjcIh74bjBJDQVBbDH9JS5BGkgfjzBCdg-floa9iwf3mICUPEeye3PRd3BAsIVSfAT8qziZ70CglNJCkMq0vWcP-r4zTY0vMFRak4zxAwqcT0jaKgQccY-IOooW2rVjk/s320/Sp181201ce-small-800x600.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">© Chappatte in Der Spiegel</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Don't quote me word for word... but I believe that what we young people are all fighting for is something more than just a stable job and a standard paycheck. We want to wake up and feel excited to go to work. We want to feel accomplished and happy working for the things that we believe in. We want to believe that our every decision and every action will be able to influence and impact something bigger. We do not want to be stuck in a corporate rut - and that's why so many are aspiring to be / becoming entrepreneurs.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There’s just too much that I want to share with regards to this... and sometimes my mind goes around bopping left and right with all the experiences and things I want to say but can’t put into words. To be honest, I am still not done with this topic, but all I really want to say is that. We may be the group of people who benefited from technological advancements firsthand, but everything in this world comes with a price...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMRVGjZ1X29vfJtFl8RnCACf7u0EeKvr7Sdy4IlhJ4E8VG9hfsEw9QLlFXz8Uz0UA4DUKMBgYOzRvTtzCQJoPxYkfw8ickN6MEOcToV-tM6um_WfY2Pmv1nPwHm2fqcMjMlkPZLwO4Nqg/s1600/5293_2107139_46564-copy_1517420523.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMRVGjZ1X29vfJtFl8RnCACf7u0EeKvr7Sdy4IlhJ4E8VG9hfsEw9QLlFXz8Uz0UA4DUKMBgYOzRvTtzCQJoPxYkfw8ickN6MEOcToV-tM6um_WfY2Pmv1nPwHm2fqcMjMlkPZLwO4Nqg/s320/5293_2107139_46564-copy_1517420523.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
It would not be fair, as there can be no apple-to-apple comparison against the previous generations. One should note that this statement also holds true, for the "Gen Zs" - the first generation and true natives of the digital age. The resources made available to us may be different, but so are the challenges of being a working adult in present times.<br />
<br />
As time go by and with each new generation, comes a different set of expectations and behaviour. The generation of the past will not understand the next... and I think that's okay. Humans are kind of conflicted, aren't we?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">meixii</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<span class="fullpost">
</span></div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com0Singapore1.352083 103.819836000000010.8441055 103.174389 1.8600605 104.46528300000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-12364026608928895292018-06-21T12:00:00.000+08:002018-10-24T11:30:43.395+08:00Traditional Breakfast at your Local Cafe: Chin Mee Chin<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For the longest time, this well-known and nostalgic establishment located far in the east has been sitting quietly on my bucket list. Established in 1925, it is one of the few places in Singapore that has foodies boasting of it's historical value in Singapore's food scene.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjusOsnnHZytqbT19mg3OTkOG53hAyn_hMGVc5iEddySw91Io_OzIkte-AKEb7paYZxgbxpXbuECxQx19eaMMMrRohXo-BOLZv7pd1s-vmKUEjzqQ9Q33uMBZgkxOXH-DjNfrRMYfNy8kY/s1600/IMG_6513_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjusOsnnHZytqbT19mg3OTkOG53hAyn_hMGVc5iEddySw91Io_OzIkte-AKEb7paYZxgbxpXbuECxQx19eaMMMrRohXo-BOLZv7pd1s-vmKUEjzqQ9Q33uMBZgkxOXH-DjNfrRMYfNy8kY/s640/IMG_6513_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I took this photo when I was leaving. Was about 12:30 by then.</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When I went arrived there at about 11:00 last Saturday, I was surprised to find that there were still many hungry customers in the shop. One would think that the crowd would have died down by then; but apparently not. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'd have to say, there is indeed certain charm oozing from this place, and I definitely didn't feel like I was in present day Singapore. The marble tops and the old-school floor tiles even reminded me of Hong-Kong's many famous Cha Chaan Tengs (Literally Meaning: Tea Restaurant). It's no surprise that I spotted a few tourists while I was there. <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "segoe ui emoji"; text-align: left;">🤷♀️</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>1) How to Order</b><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ps: I was told by some that we were supposed to pay before getting a seat... but in that crowd and all that bustle, it does seem to me that the rules broke down.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Firstly, for those visiting this place for the first time (like I did), <b>do not be deceived</b> by the people sitting around on tables filled with used cutlery. You'd think they have finished their meal, and would be going off? Think again. Very often, these people have just gotten their seats and they probably have an assigned friend/family member in the queue, preparing to buy their food.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In my humble and inexperienced opinion, the best way to get around this - is to divide and conquer. Have some of your friends/family look out for available seats while the others start queuing to make the order and pay. I personally went there with my better half, and I had him queue for the food, while I got us 2 seats. Given the small sitting space, it wasn't too surprising that we had to share our table with another 2 small families (a total of 7 people, including us). </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhIUKVfKm7iF_NEb6H7WQm_Sc0DM7M70araxNe5T7HaTl5H9kYacVTv_Xm9XYj7gGwDLzd88atV-vPw-YTnOqyvqRF7AHnUhuRUj7ZGjOrAwifN6z37wjrtusGYK1OVZXlJICJL5ZZmk/s1600/IMG_6494_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhIUKVfKm7iF_NEb6H7WQm_Sc0DM7M70araxNe5T7HaTl5H9kYacVTv_Xm9XYj7gGwDLzd88atV-vPw-YTnOqyvqRF7AHnUhuRUj7ZGjOrAwifN6z37wjrtusGYK1OVZXlJICJL5ZZmk/s640/IMG_6494_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Finally got into the queue after figuring out the ordering system here. </i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq2ntU45nYLAJSr9hqo7F7aDwX_LcBpyrNk22e-yhIEBbpNhO2pf7GuiC3cHzj2sjXcWrPMoAm8qt1WtCubQ2Txm6rNeTOD2FXCj68hhMP-s_A7rKsna7fo5oaBT8nTdpvl-eydIwnBfA/s1600/IMG_6501_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq2ntU45nYLAJSr9hqo7F7aDwX_LcBpyrNk22e-yhIEBbpNhO2pf7GuiC3cHzj2sjXcWrPMoAm8qt1WtCubQ2Txm6rNeTOD2FXCj68hhMP-s_A7rKsna7fo5oaBT8nTdpvl-eydIwnBfA/s640/IMG_6501_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">After waiting for about 25mins, we finally got to order our food.</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I am not too sure if this is the usual practice.. but while we were there, we were made to write our own orders down on a piece of paper, along with our table number. Payment was made upon giving the order to the lady at the counter.<br />
<br />
Overall, despite the long wait and the cramped seating, it was actually a meaningful experience - since I ended up conversing with one of the ladies at my table rather than keeping my eyes on the phone. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>2) It's all about the Food</b><br />
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
While getting our orders in, we also decided to try some of the traditional-looking pastries sold in the metal cabinets at Chin Mee Chin. We were already mad hungry (See: Hangry) by then, considering that it was already 12:00 and we have yet to have our breakfast.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN1nDk5T92JRr3uFL1QTuaiv080ADW_F_WTDVa5SkEPfK0Z6NMnn5wE4pmDpkBFbO4UyvwEih9pUjonIfJMJAxMW7AU_LyCro02FC5aZQVnrfw_iEdSFZeuWHMphyYBwYfilvoCVAjI3o/s1600/IMG_6496_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN1nDk5T92JRr3uFL1QTuaiv080ADW_F_WTDVa5SkEPfK0Z6NMnn5wE4pmDpkBFbO4UyvwEih9pUjonIfJMJAxMW7AU_LyCro02FC5aZQVnrfw_iEdSFZeuWHMphyYBwYfilvoCVAjI3o/s640/IMG_6496_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">One Custard Puff, and 3 traditional Cupcakes. Some food to eat while we await our main course.</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw-2zw1Ea0ejrasIR0Zm1CxKioq-sr8nDbH0L_B6v4qMmYHd7Jhv-HBmArj-JKpC4K8Lc2_W4Go9sBrUlxG4iiHZNlo17LgJVtGYvR12wzYjHCY94otZQ52O_cRQ5dGVVANPyFl3yNRrA/s1600/IMG_6499_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw-2zw1Ea0ejrasIR0Zm1CxKioq-sr8nDbH0L_B6v4qMmYHd7Jhv-HBmArj-JKpC4K8Lc2_W4Go9sBrUlxG4iiHZNlo17LgJVtGYvR12wzYjHCY94otZQ52O_cRQ5dGVVANPyFl3yNRrA/s640/IMG_6499_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Here's the "Original" flavored Cupcake.</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpmjpc3ApbjXNuKa7CyzI66OyRG13aOnMOugYYQa6S7qsMDLNGDtCgjHSNLcs38YyVp1wAWEWTe3DucUHJ8zOqDuw8BoqsZJAqhyQUkFCLfZXTM4BLER4GOCPXgdUmRA52nyyuTpvK9Q/s1600/IMG_6500_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpmjpc3ApbjXNuKa7CyzI66OyRG13aOnMOugYYQa6S7qsMDLNGDtCgjHSNLcs38YyVp1wAWEWTe3DucUHJ8zOqDuw8BoqsZJAqhyQUkFCLfZXTM4BLER4GOCPXgdUmRA52nyyuTpvK9Q/s640/IMG_6500_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>And the Custard Puff.</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
As one would have expected, the cupcakes weren't exactly Michelin Café-esque.... <b>but</b> they had a nice comforting flavor and feeling to it. Kinda reminded me of a good old homemade vanilla pound cake. Extra brownie points for being warm when we had them.👍<br />
<br />
As for the custard puff, they were a tad disappointing since the puff was soft and deflated. It's saving grace being that it isn't overly sweet.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPOunqXKKWo6xImKXV-yFM2Y7P2ngmpD5j9C6oOmNq3s9GsIGep3xO4osvrf_HxkNYOTZCcSMq3HbfJhcolP5v3RAM73lIRqybE3IVzJdoec1O5RdSFaJ4674-rB54XKWfCnKHe2x5ByU/s1600/IMG_6502_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPOunqXKKWo6xImKXV-yFM2Y7P2ngmpD5j9C6oOmNq3s9GsIGep3xO4osvrf_HxkNYOTZCcSMq3HbfJhcolP5v3RAM73lIRqybE3IVzJdoec1O5RdSFaJ4674-rB54XKWfCnKHe2x5ByU/s640/IMG_6502_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Breakfast finally! Or should I say, brunch.</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7HiXr8C3P9XjqaCot6IbFJIcHnVd-y4ON67EE5ai1TkRU5yrv2LeHkFaK0oq8eBkrQl0Htm1hBzi80mPE7rxpZYWIpKmMnBAeLiKE_ArYBCCDtGuEC4qQqo1UHr9hhHDoQwxqqz01q4Q/s1600/IMG_6507_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7HiXr8C3P9XjqaCot6IbFJIcHnVd-y4ON67EE5ai1TkRU5yrv2LeHkFaK0oq8eBkrQl0Htm1hBzi80mPE7rxpZYWIpKmMnBAeLiKE_ArYBCCDtGuEC4qQqo1UHr9hhHDoQwxqqz01q4Q/s640/IMG_6507_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Another photo with the eggs cracked.</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
We ordered 2 kaya toasts ($1 each), 4 eggs ($0.80 each) and 2 drinks for our consumption. It was definitely a nice and comforting meal all in all, and the round bun was a nice puffy change from the typical sliced bread from Killiney or Ya Kun.<br />
<br />
<i>After finally striking off this place from my bucket list, one would ask - will I be back?</i><br />
<br />
Well first of all, I live in the west. So if distance isn't a good form of deterrence, I don't know what is. It's also probably the same reason why this place stayed on the list for years, untouched.<br />
As for those who have yet to give this place a go, I'd definitely say, do go for it. Give this place a try, at least once, if not twice. If I were to compare Chin Mee Chin to the regular Kopitiam's toast set, it will definitely be pricier. But I guess, we are all paying a premium for the quaint ambiance.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Chin Mee Chin Confectionery</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Expected Damage: SGD $5+</div>
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: Lato; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" />
<u style="background-color: white; font-family: Lato; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Address:</u><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "lato";">204 E Coast Rd, Singapore 428903</span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "lato"; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(Closest Station: Eunos)</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: Lato; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" />
<u style="background-color: white; font-family: Lato; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Opening Hours:</u><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "lato"; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Tue – Sunday: 8:30 – 16:00</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "lato"; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Mon: closed</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "lato"; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "lato"; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: orange; font-family: "lato"; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: orange; font-family: "lato"; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">meixii</span></div>
</div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com0Singapore1.352083 103.819836000000010.8441055 103.174389 1.8600605 104.46528300000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-53896702893210825982018-01-18T12:00:00.000+08:002018-10-24T11:30:34.024+08:00Visit London's Regency Café - A Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2018. Twenty Eighteen.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's unbelievable that it has been almost a year since my graduation trip to the UK in March 2017... With life trudging by slowly, 24 hours a day, its inconceivable how the past 7200 hours went by so quickly that one can't help but feel a sense of loss/sadness. A quick search on google tells me that what i'm feeling is known as <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mono_no_aware" target="_blank"><i>Mono no aware</i> (物の哀れ)</a> - A Japanese expression for melancholic appreciation of the transiency of existence.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It is however, no accident or surprise to me that melancholy kicks in while reminiscing the better days passed. Don't we all find that it's easier to reminisce on the good memories rather than the bad?</div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-weight: normal;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="font-size: xx-large;">The digital camera is a great invention because </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="font-size: xx-large;">it allows us to reminisce. Instantly. </i></div>
</span></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>-- Demetri Martin</i></span></span></span></h2>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Going back to the story on my UK trip, I did some googling and research prior to travelling to note down places in London that are highly recommended for their breakfast. I found Regency Café on a few of the YouTube videos that I was watching and decided to have it on the priority list.<br />
<br />
The place wasn't difficult to find with the help of GPS and Google Maps. We took the tube (Circle Line) from Paddington Station to St James Park Station and walked for approximately 10 mins to reach the café.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIH92-DtHYb7n7JwPostxj1umhyci7kHXwOPk8C6mwXKP4RSvkPmV8qRZXZMq-A5BGXB5vr8YiL9fcpQm1yl7WY_i0zM1-rGVTA-RzTdYBHwGPaWyP2fyotMwIjP0cnMkLNw5szzvSnh0/s1600/IMG_9606_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIH92-DtHYb7n7JwPostxj1umhyci7kHXwOPk8C6mwXKP4RSvkPmV8qRZXZMq-A5BGXB5vr8YiL9fcpQm1yl7WY_i0zM1-rGVTA-RzTdYBHwGPaWyP2fyotMwIjP0cnMkLNw5szzvSnh0/s640/IMG_9606_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Here we are!<br />I am so in love the charming looking exterior. </span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAODue6qU5Q-8jdBHhSS6a_GqbrnoRkS8DC7JInmHcxs7JcrpWXBMjWPu6yl43LMUTRKKEqm5_OpBXKekpdFfmeDGzbW6p2KTtyvwQRmKqISz4i-cwVCMRpOilR6T-uxgR-tnvyts1ajk/s1600/Capture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="834" data-original-width="1237" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAODue6qU5Q-8jdBHhSS6a_GqbrnoRkS8DC7JInmHcxs7JcrpWXBMjWPu6yl43LMUTRKKEqm5_OpBXKekpdFfmeDGzbW6p2KTtyvwQRmKqISz4i-cwVCMRpOilR6T-uxgR-tnvyts1ajk/s640/Capture.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Google Maps to the rescue! </span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
When we arrived at approximately 8AM that day (it was a Saturday), a queue had formed in the shop, which was getting longer with time. Established in 1946, the first thing that you would probably note upon entering the café is the olde worlde interior - the tiled walls, checkered curtains and laminated tables brings about a cozy and homely feeling.<br />
<br />
What you might also notice is the interesting business model. So basically, you order, you sit down, and collect your meal when its ready. It's a fuss-free system that ensures a seat for customers receiving their meals.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNNq6xUiSxaTurNSaYeMQfzO5gS3oK8UTIKJlem87dCcwW1LFVS1r6wMyf_c3cTJmUSm3xrG9fWp2Twnl2wor_hqaM3dbIy769mq9OPc30glcd30q7VDP6tE3JGXyuuwXxaj2EhJK3mfU/s1600/IMG_9608_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNNq6xUiSxaTurNSaYeMQfzO5gS3oK8UTIKJlem87dCcwW1LFVS1r6wMyf_c3cTJmUSm3xrG9fWp2Twnl2wor_hqaM3dbIy769mq9OPc30glcd30q7VDP6tE3JGXyuuwXxaj2EhJK3mfU/s640/IMG_9608_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0yIjbuIQbwO_QU3zhoIFAa0xMKgqa0ovh6jcHGhZKhvMngp5LRtKhXu5GAjYObCG0fps2yClJrPS4GNp8mtKRhQZZVY5KG1WO4obzcKZbOo_ukV-xNvoogvJbYufVr7lzXfn6SCR_29I/s1600/IMG_9609_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0yIjbuIQbwO_QU3zhoIFAa0xMKgqa0ovh6jcHGhZKhvMngp5LRtKhXu5GAjYObCG0fps2yClJrPS4GNp8mtKRhQZZVY5KG1WO4obzcKZbOo_ukV-xNvoogvJbYufVr7lzXfn6SCR_29I/s640/IMG_9609_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Old-school black board menu.</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
To be honest, it definitely not the cheapest breakfast that I have ever had... But considering that its downtown London, I do feel that this place offers excellent value for extremely decent food. My parents, along with my better half and I, had ordered 3 set breakfasts, and an Eggs Benedict.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2NMV_qk688c41xXowOAL_sg6cX6V3znWYyAF7zH0APGJ_rki1mXLcu0AhhMskvC2qKmVHhbhuScmE3bC4iSD0AUVCDsLBsQSW93_eOiSnWwwn7p_i7o1wEx98nK0nQ4acK4XSgYdy4s/s1600/IMG_9611_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2NMV_qk688c41xXowOAL_sg6cX6V3znWYyAF7zH0APGJ_rki1mXLcu0AhhMskvC2qKmVHhbhuScmE3bC4iSD0AUVCDsLBsQSW93_eOiSnWwwn7p_i7o1wEx98nK0nQ4acK4XSgYdy4s/s640/IMG_9611_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">The regular, breakfast set.</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The bacon was delicious (I like how it wasn't salted), and the eggs cooked perfectly. I wasn't a fan of the sausage - it's probably just me - as they weren't the crispy type. I'd say that the texture of the sausage was closer to a long version of minced meat. OH. And for the first time, we got to taste the famous Black Pudding - a blood sausage commonly eaten in Great Britain, Ireland and Europe - for 90 cents.<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you'd ask me, Black Pudding</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> has sort of a grainy texture, thanks to the oat content. It's chewy, and heavy, almost like a meat version of a dense brownie. For first-time (Asian) consumers like us; we had largely varied responses to this unique dish. My parents weren't so keen on the dish, lamenting that the gamy flavour was not to their liking. I personally found it okay... though I wouldn't voluntarily pay additional dollar for it. My other half however found it very enjoyable and even contemplated buying a second serving. 🤷</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jGnrlkNxNjIx8fRanPUFjwYbtFdwkSY2O-3idKTAdV_8JWrIRvlf7c5xE9sJ22FERDCTbUoDQGz9F4sLYiW8iFFXjhejFnpm7lPXnXva3vfNcTNqtwWZWgzI73e1xmQymL33gtZXM_o/s1600/IMG_9613_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jGnrlkNxNjIx8fRanPUFjwYbtFdwkSY2O-3idKTAdV_8JWrIRvlf7c5xE9sJ22FERDCTbUoDQGz9F4sLYiW8iFFXjhejFnpm7lPXnXva3vfNcTNqtwWZWgzI73e1xmQymL33gtZXM_o/s640/IMG_9613_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>See the dark looking patties on the plate? That's Black Pudding.</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ie56D-mshK4FYPWBc6iftBpO8KGJiXqXPUGdv2tloyxvdET8EaMi7tVAA3cOGJdouFFq0NXTTEtoyA1DPnTP16Z3RVRrbRe02a6L0wycQECmA9u08Z00Jq7EeG2x76S_cpEG4dNV-NM/s1600/IMG_9616_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ie56D-mshK4FYPWBc6iftBpO8KGJiXqXPUGdv2tloyxvdET8EaMi7tVAA3cOGJdouFFq0NXTTEtoyA1DPnTP16Z3RVRrbRe02a6L0wycQECmA9u08Z00Jq7EeG2x76S_cpEG4dNV-NM/s640/IMG_9616_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Eggs Benedict!</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Overall, I have to say that this is really a great place to have a good British breakfast. Especially for tourists like us, who are looking for a one-stop, fuss-free, and authentic experience. Do consider visiting this place yourself if you are in town! ☺️</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<br />
<b>Regency Café</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Expected Damage: <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: left;">£</span>6 +<br />
<br />
<u>Address:</u><br />
17-19 Regency St, Westminster, London SW1P 4BY, UK<br />
(Closest Stations: St James Park / Pimlico)<br />
<br />
<u>Opening Hours:</u><br />
Mon – Friday: 7:00 – 14:30, 16:00 – 19:15<br />
Sat: 7:00 – 12:00<br />
Sun: closed<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">meixii</span></div>
</div>
<span class="fullpost">
</span></div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com2London, UK51.5073509 -0.1277582999999822351.1912379 -0.77320529999998222 51.8234639 0.51768870000001777tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-19829220338188646282017-07-13T12:00:00.000+08:002018-02-19T21:52:34.138+08:00Visit Singapore - Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve<script async="" data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-save="true" data-pin-tall="true" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwmSBT_HUJfERXLOWllZpUMSyJXXMn1Y0ydBlvlAEhcsYVBUNJrRwvr8I4AA1uFDElRks3KWnzOoQgDe9JZxhBryDj8Xz5cqrMh1LTEltiWpdOzBOwQu145OdC68_id-JXMpNd46zYwGY/s1600/IMG_0658_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwmSBT_HUJfERXLOWllZpUMSyJXXMn1Y0ydBlvlAEhcsYVBUNJrRwvr8I4AA1uFDElRks3KWnzOoQgDe9JZxhBryDj8Xz5cqrMh1LTEltiWpdOzBOwQu145OdC68_id-JXMpNd46zYwGY/s640/IMG_0658_1.jpg" width="494" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For the past few weeks, I'm not too sure what came over my dad, but he was all for the idea of going for a weekly morning walk/hike. So just last Saturday, he suggested that we visit the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, which resides on the northwestern end of Singapore. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was up for the let's-wake-up-at-7am-to-exercise challenge, because...I really have to exercise. Furthermore, I was pretty keen on visiting the park thanks to a recent development observed in this nature reserve. (Stay tuned to find out what they did to try and hype up interest among the locals. 😉)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you didn't already know, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is Singapore’s first ASEAN Heritage Park. The park started with 130 hectares and has since expanded to 202 hectares. In the reserve, you may discover inhabitants such as mud skippers, crabs, water snakes, birds, monitor lizards and many more.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyi7Y8KWRh6vZwtIrwZ0WmqNTWXOg06J7MMY5g2sQ1hvtq6XoKd1oEl1J87FwJc5yWX0nv_dC-p4f-npOe7WXZt-VZ4JAMoQ2EaqIaftQblZBeHxHPpkmIv4BjjvT4y9FRdjGnkJ4yNQI/s1600/IMG_0633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyi7Y8KWRh6vZwtIrwZ0WmqNTWXOg06J7MMY5g2sQ1hvtq6XoKd1oEl1J87FwJc5yWX0nv_dC-p4f-npOe7WXZt-VZ4JAMoQ2EaqIaftQblZBeHxHPpkmIv4BjjvT4y9FRdjGnkJ4yNQI/s640/IMG_0633.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">This is the entrance to the Wetland Center!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">There's another entrance which leads to the Visitor Center.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwkZpoyBs8aH8TBQLqEnMPl4uMJtHGgYV07YVGTxdiBBFMErlro2tgrSizhUlHdeSNj-L8ufE64AFeNQmEtrLSedvrExmbix_DrZIU5Y9A0VSqbVxE9jdetrJT0rPo-_eZS-pCD44Baqk/s1600/IMG_0632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwkZpoyBs8aH8TBQLqEnMPl4uMJtHGgYV07YVGTxdiBBFMErlro2tgrSizhUlHdeSNj-L8ufE64AFeNQmEtrLSedvrExmbix_DrZIU5Y9A0VSqbVxE9jdetrJT0rPo-_eZS-pCD44Baqk/s640/IMG_0632.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The map!<br />You may download or print your own map <a href="https://www.nparks.gov.sg/~/media/walking-route-map-small/walking-route-map.jpg?la=en" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
If you look closely at the map above, there are a total of <b>4</b> available trails to choose from. We decided on the Coastal Trail (one-way 1300m) because... I requested for it.<br />
<br />
Compared to the Migratory Bird Trail, the Coastal Trail is a newer route and it holds the key to the "recent development" that I mentioned earlier. Also, do visit the toilets located at the Visitor Centre before you embark on the trial, as you won't have access to one until the end of the trial.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVGNQaDNAUr4tDNlygYgwjg14qstlCGO5FCb5DAkBuccN1GiRzz6vHO8Q3Ubv2Wpky4E9XyiWzGvbHsIr3yzJGoJ8Tr1zkc_rIYmkLbxhquoVz5oSkBtRUWpbtu_GHE-MVKxAXnk19PiM/s1600/IMG_0635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVGNQaDNAUr4tDNlygYgwjg14qstlCGO5FCb5DAkBuccN1GiRzz6vHO8Q3Ubv2Wpky4E9XyiWzGvbHsIr3yzJGoJ8Tr1zkc_rIYmkLbxhquoVz5oSkBtRUWpbtu_GHE-MVKxAXnk19PiM/s640/IMG_0635.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Mudflats: Interactive observation points during low tides.<br />Great for the kids!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsSDEjg48SWq21ONjNVcjE_kclDLR3IgC8RspLX3WqG9HBakIVZSfSlvAobMt7l6J1vWeK8hyphenhyphenPast4VOe6NjWUqp884qG88NCiA9GIXkaDbPKf9-_Ufrj6L6fTlkB_QbzJnctA8FOKVkk/s1600/IMG_0634.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsSDEjg48SWq21ONjNVcjE_kclDLR3IgC8RspLX3WqG9HBakIVZSfSlvAobMt7l6J1vWeK8hyphenhyphenPast4VOe6NjWUqp884qG88NCiA9GIXkaDbPKf9-_Ufrj6L6fTlkB_QbzJnctA8FOKVkk/s640/IMG_0634.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The path down to the mudflats.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImC5P3Vw443LCT1dtYMFhwAnhqnTtMLMY6l8bTAhx2F1cMr0DAfs505ga0_Ybgho0d_SbA0DvvEBr5sg5dNbFSOSXuS0dWq6TYg9JNU9WTJkrDJGHobzM5TkpN1XlE1I9IKtEAsJDzJo/s1600/IMG_0637.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImC5P3Vw443LCT1dtYMFhwAnhqnTtMLMY6l8bTAhx2F1cMr0DAfs505ga0_Ybgho0d_SbA0DvvEBr5sg5dNbFSOSXuS0dWq6TYg9JNU9WTJkrDJGHobzM5TkpN1XlE1I9IKtEAsJDzJo/s640/IMG_0637.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The mangrove forest!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
So if you'd follow the path (it's pretty easy and clear to follow), you'll soon encounter onion-like structures as pictured below. These structures, also known as 'pods' are likely installed by the National Parks Board to increase interest and visitor numbers due to its' instagrammable potential.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN9DSEtzL-C5FvpVzeiOCT3GEiOq-rrSJf6sP4vQA5XPjTKX1uySnv6I2-srT1o_qh7wpO_BfAiqPta5fx3RQPmEIArIlTC1KH6Zs8CSwLrFrGmEg5o4XhA7FqfHPwwEYIMpAtw3VW89I/s1600/IMG_0640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN9DSEtzL-C5FvpVzeiOCT3GEiOq-rrSJf6sP4vQA5XPjTKX1uySnv6I2-srT1o_qh7wpO_BfAiqPta5fx3RQPmEIArIlTC1KH6Zs8CSwLrFrGmEg5o4XhA7FqfHPwwEYIMpAtw3VW89I/s640/IMG_0640.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Boardwalks are evident in the reserve.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjak225zFT7ONhFa0grIKH3hQsK1zV1LXjdFsUDJpWpCfDTcoO-Xk-0iSZxx8NQQXD-4eouKxKXCLqgh70fCviSFhcV5zhTje9J6OfHvNMwTRvQYz3O5RsqsUZAiSAtoQELnCQTafau8j8/s1600/IMG_0641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjak225zFT7ONhFa0grIKH3hQsK1zV1LXjdFsUDJpWpCfDTcoO-Xk-0iSZxx8NQQXD-4eouKxKXCLqgh70fCviSFhcV5zhTje9J6OfHvNMwTRvQYz3O5RsqsUZAiSAtoQELnCQTafau8j8/s640/IMG_0641.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">This is the dragonfly pod.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-1yBQVoc92LY_di29GRPvnG42yVo3yXAChcNba_NGEWynebcF4AlEpjiKj_ZUPG2OhfH3oFX1TpudUeytnfTAyf_b2Ah_tO6U_gvG3sE1RHe5tNytcxJHG63JKK2oiermqkaxIiMrBFY/s1600/IMG_0643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-1yBQVoc92LY_di29GRPvnG42yVo3yXAChcNba_NGEWynebcF4AlEpjiKj_ZUPG2OhfH3oFX1TpudUeytnfTAyf_b2Ah_tO6U_gvG3sE1RHe5tNytcxJHG63JKK2oiermqkaxIiMrBFY/s640/IMG_0643.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">View from the dragonfly pod.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPwQ9cffZD51lM7w4Azp2_jFUORqBCp-VJCSLRX6wU8-YpT-QDsBGVnul8Z7oWcywGvwpfGd7FYOTuBujeu6n3oZ_-4lW9n5uOs6QEgcULyte9qRv9fMiwlsEKb-BvmNSofJOj7rH02F4/s1600/IMG_0645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPwQ9cffZD51lM7w4Azp2_jFUORqBCp-VJCSLRX6wU8-YpT-QDsBGVnul8Z7oWcywGvwpfGd7FYOTuBujeu6n3oZ_-4lW9n5uOs6QEgcULyte9qRv9fMiwlsEKb-BvmNSofJOj7rH02F4/s640/IMG_0645.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">That's Malaysia, across the sea.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1LE7RpJIoB0wxsbhhjRCjQlMfO8LfFDwuLP7zrkuJv5lY7SCRyqrCG0vW5MMrUDtWbcNn6_timJgJxEYjtUHrhU9qsDczuwELLKRc5qDTybcOzVSrjz-c0-BgHRdkdGlUgOCfjrG9WWc/s1600/IMG_0646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1LE7RpJIoB0wxsbhhjRCjQlMfO8LfFDwuLP7zrkuJv5lY7SCRyqrCG0vW5MMrUDtWbcNn6_timJgJxEYjtUHrhU9qsDczuwELLKRc5qDTybcOzVSrjz-c0-BgHRdkdGlUgOCfjrG9WWc/s640/IMG_0646.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirey4HnZCcGeQkZ0AVMGoYPd0XkqvYEFHbN1aDFYrZDSLYOxjqTuDAfEjt_CRc2wqJCd8UDl4jEoMyrs7Ge2Uy2sjyh6V6OzjXyeB1BkTOLMMrogV4sgUGVV5IcN0YeRzG1NHAKTygpms/s1600/IMG_0647.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirey4HnZCcGeQkZ0AVMGoYPd0XkqvYEFHbN1aDFYrZDSLYOxjqTuDAfEjt_CRc2wqJCd8UDl4jEoMyrs7Ge2Uy2sjyh6V6OzjXyeB1BkTOLMMrogV4sgUGVV5IcN0YeRzG1NHAKTygpms/s640/IMG_0647.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Walk, walk, walk!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
While walking and exploring the park, do also watch out for the presence of crocodiles and monkeys! I managed to spot a tiny tiny croc in the water during my visit.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA1mPPGX3VmrTzN8UAa3t-aospHt7fc_NdYUMhvIDUFY6-SfWi0Pa_b0hSj2DeGcSatx277W9jdMVxrNVjcgs7XhW1zyXDPFYOBnQujCf5-smDA5e3p7ai1kUYeC9MiTM0hxq3fIXpVyo/s1600/IMG_0650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA1mPPGX3VmrTzN8UAa3t-aospHt7fc_NdYUMhvIDUFY6-SfWi0Pa_b0hSj2DeGcSatx277W9jdMVxrNVjcgs7XhW1zyXDPFYOBnQujCf5-smDA5e3p7ai1kUYeC9MiTM0hxq3fIXpVyo/s640/IMG_0650.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Estuarine crocodiles are also known as saltwater crocodiles.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Hgd-4OXa-3qB22dDXNdbpJVsmoqYBZ3Ss0BLoHvSVUAr_ERov_3zn6BW3LaXiDTxdBLGNBixFeu1pz7cIGTt71hu0nPxVzs4M1AgsQafwQSp08hsbZmsBp_a49Xmr_wDJIYTasZARUs/s1600/IMG_0651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Hgd-4OXa-3qB22dDXNdbpJVsmoqYBZ3Ss0BLoHvSVUAr_ERov_3zn6BW3LaXiDTxdBLGNBixFeu1pz7cIGTt71hu0nPxVzs4M1AgsQafwQSp08hsbZmsBp_a49Xmr_wDJIYTasZARUs/s640/IMG_0651.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> A long-tailed macaque, which is commonly spotted in Singapore's reserves.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
And if you choose to walk this trail, do make your way to Eagle Point! This observation pod is the prettiest in my opinion - because it extends out into the sea and resides above the water.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGZSEHULQOVyQZUJEPhUkR-lH6j2DBWAoJ7v2yBj36RzylO-UP6riGwe4wOlH_GdaPMXq72HJ0501O4AHNd-_GX8ooARw3z4FwkknZgedEA26Qe4Mgwjdd4yXcT6s7MILW4BBGiPy6Xsg/s1600/IMG_0659.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGZSEHULQOVyQZUJEPhUkR-lH6j2DBWAoJ7v2yBj36RzylO-UP6riGwe4wOlH_GdaPMXq72HJ0501O4AHNd-_GX8ooARw3z4FwkknZgedEA26Qe4Mgwjdd4yXcT6s7MILW4BBGiPy6Xsg/s640/IMG_0659.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjixbCtAU8InO5l7ZKssWwPDR8HI3759EHCLKn1fnp8UhyphenhyphenG_O561BBAWORIz2Q829SrVO3fMnE1zd-cVDxjctuBh86vlb6cARQO2MUYG7tATKHCGmf_VgBRXptkFlWePbjQZJTVDH_z4/s1600/IMG_0654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjixbCtAU8InO5l7ZKssWwPDR8HI3759EHCLKn1fnp8UhyphenhyphenG_O561BBAWORIz2Q829SrVO3fMnE1zd-cVDxjctuBh86vlb6cARQO2MUYG7tATKHCGmf_VgBRXptkFlWePbjQZJTVDH_z4/s640/IMG_0654.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">See what I mean?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
So for those who are stopping over or living in Singapore, and are looking for an interesting outdoor experience that does not take up too much money, this would be a good place to consider visiting on a cool day. That's not to say that you shouldn't visit this place on a warm day; just make sure you are equipped with sunblock!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
For avid photographers, do bring your tripods and explore the other trail - the Migratory Bird Trail. This other path will lead you to the Aerie Tower where you can better spot resident and/or birds such as Herons, Kingfishers, Cuckoos and Sandpipers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b>Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Free Entry</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<u>Address:</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Visitor Centre - 60 Kranji Way, #01-00, Singapore 739453</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Wetland Centre - 301 Neo Tiew Crescent, Singapore 718925</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<u>Phone Number:</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
+65 6794 1401</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<u>Opening Hours:</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
7.30am to 7pm (Mon - Sat) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
7am to 7pm (Sun and Public Holidays)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<u>Website:</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
https://www.nparks.gov.sg/sbwr</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<span class="fullpost">
</span>meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-13734793570320098132017-07-06T12:00:00.000+08:002017-07-09T10:13:02.623+08:00Ajiya Okonomiyaki Restaurant: DIY Japanese Pancake <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWewdEwiiWPBfjjoXOU8fTVZvpnRQaGu0MXC4aCu5zZ2lyq3Dlgm10LQg6OyXD6a2v7AwgoWe1kgww4a9PjfvDfX7ohCRJJkRg8ZGR96bu02ttD1QUYVDR2TENwX8JA-20Z3_lIzAMTHg/s1600/A1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1020" data-original-width="564" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWewdEwiiWPBfjjoXOU8fTVZvpnRQaGu0MXC4aCu5zZ2lyq3Dlgm10LQg6OyXD6a2v7AwgoWe1kgww4a9PjfvDfX7ohCRJJkRg8ZGR96bu02ttD1QUYVDR2TENwX8JA-20Z3_lIzAMTHg/s400/A1.jpg" width="220" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<script async="" data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-save="true" data-pin-tall="true" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>
So... the boyfriend promised me many months ago that he'll give me a treat after receiving his first salary. Apparently he owes me a meal, among the many other things that he had previously committed himself to (including... a watch, a necklace, flowers, and a ring 😉).<br />
<br />
About a month ago while taking the bus, I chanced upon this Okonomiyaki place called Ajiya and mentioned it to him. It was just something that I thought I would like to try one day; but the boyfriend mentioned that we should have a go at this place sooner and not later because we all know that "one day" never comes.<br />
<br />
And so, comes my mini review of this place.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNDPrDzaMjWcZElMiWAf1pYxhn2BVHQuThjB3JAJzXm8uqUSaKVQrNcJ1YowPr6svKXHdEeHDyYUVGzzDh5Y9UYro8u-9Yk8-dQ4MKxouxlRxEmUUVaSjBN6mkQbp_E6ojPj71placFiA/s1600/IMG_0821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNDPrDzaMjWcZElMiWAf1pYxhn2BVHQuThjB3JAJzXm8uqUSaKVQrNcJ1YowPr6svKXHdEeHDyYUVGzzDh5Y9UYro8u-9Yk8-dQ4MKxouxlRxEmUUVaSjBN6mkQbp_E6ojPj71placFiA/s640/IMG_0821.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ajiya is a customisable Okonomiyaki restaurant located at Bukit Timah (Jalan Jurong Kechil) where you can get to customise your pancake with 3 of your desired ingredients. You could also request from the staff for a chance at making and flipping your own Okonomiyaki and saucing it according to your liking.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was a Tuesday evening and what happened was, we arrived excitedly at the restaurant at 6pm, knowing well that they start their dinner hours at 5:30pm. However, the restaurant apparently had a lunch event earlier and it overran. A rather friendly female staff told us that they were still in the midst of cleaning the place, and mentioned that we could come back in 30mins. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Honestly, there wasn't much to do around in that area and so we ended up borrowing the chairs at the outdoor seating area at the bar/lounge beside. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ps: The bar beside is otherwise known as Club Vivaa.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We were pretty grateful that the sun was setting and so it wasn't too torturous to just sit there and wait for time to pass. But what did get me going was the houseflies - i'm not too sure where they came from, but I definitely don't smell like food or garbage. 😒 </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<u>TL;DR</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I entered the restaurant at 6:30pm.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And I got to sit around a teppan counter.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwOUrWdOzEA8pyFEaVnOBbpeTG7Dzk6Esnb2MY3BW5qjL6kbgvxtIkxyklvGb3A7oDWHDLkfg6VfI0ObPBHND0VXbZqQYt52aKLr-u0ZXrRih_-QE3LQwOjHv_fkR6dUHZZEhzz9v9Kgo/s1600/IMG_0822.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwOUrWdOzEA8pyFEaVnOBbpeTG7Dzk6Esnb2MY3BW5qjL6kbgvxtIkxyklvGb3A7oDWHDLkfg6VfI0ObPBHND0VXbZqQYt52aKLr-u0ZXrRih_-QE3LQwOjHv_fkR6dUHZZEhzz9v9Kgo/s640/IMG_0822.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I really like the cosy interior! ❤️️</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRJoePRSb9mn0jfKenQ8WEo8prKYp5gz5oyulTsbszUOeK4aY4vt0lwd3vElcLpKxuBNBDAQ4QyRnBuyuuehZVR66-1payHbFabF6u_l5ChAPWgHmeEL0dFdeKe0YW1sKYdax6N9uVS0/s1600/IMG_0823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRJoePRSb9mn0jfKenQ8WEo8prKYp5gz5oyulTsbszUOeK4aY4vt0lwd3vElcLpKxuBNBDAQ4QyRnBuyuuehZVR66-1payHbFabF6u_l5ChAPWgHmeEL0dFdeKe0YW1sKYdax6N9uVS0/s640/IMG_0823.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Storage under the seat; really good idea to save floor space!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOG2S_-fPKjVoT_HpWrMm4iGi71IMAuGW1LBSV-Ct8fNHZzXDiHhCgJoxNWtXgjTX1C9SKF495dw8ZwYMUVvkkuYWq_KUhIh9BMFIH7x_blBjoCYCSF8E8fxvC0X-q5l2rTKQshu-tMfc/s1600/IMG_0824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOG2S_-fPKjVoT_HpWrMm4iGi71IMAuGW1LBSV-Ct8fNHZzXDiHhCgJoxNWtXgjTX1C9SKF495dw8ZwYMUVvkkuYWq_KUhIh9BMFIH7x_blBjoCYCSF8E8fxvC0X-q5l2rTKQshu-tMfc/s640/IMG_0824.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The menu :)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Get a better view <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/AjiyaSG/menu/?ref=page_internal" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-txvYvM-vpJGv9TRbeOBH3qpPyvP85qeP2vWJKyPG690bIriQj0SqRJZBmWn_Q_9LpsqlQdaQ8iqGx4Q79BrMUIoUvGXzB9AlSWgd60kOwPlzfr6juVQACe1XzHDrybXpn7FYO_3aDGU/s1600/IMG_0825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-txvYvM-vpJGv9TRbeOBH3qpPyvP85qeP2vWJKyPG690bIriQj0SqRJZBmWn_Q_9LpsqlQdaQ8iqGx4Q79BrMUIoUvGXzB9AlSWgd60kOwPlzfr6juVQACe1XzHDrybXpn7FYO_3aDGU/s640/IMG_0825.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The lovely man who would be footing the bill. 💕</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div>
Coming back to Okonomiyaki, if you haven't heard of it, it is a Japanese savoury pancake containing an egg along with multiple ingredients - typically cabbage, pork belly, octopus, prawns, crab meat, mushrooms and so on. This would then be topped with Okonomiyaki sauce, mayonnaise, aonori (seaweed) and bonito flakes. It's (almost) like a flattened version of Takoyaki!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The name Okonomiyaki is a combination of the words 'okonomi', meaning 'how you like', and 'yaki' which means 'grill'.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuBnZiCzmpZqPqoDaGX2H61YWBgfVGCqLoQzuWbK5yrYJFMwLSP3wdLSZonSVm057k0TOslz-J3awj45TSZiLEO5T0WSkSaON34weGclGqtmrn1cilIBE3mlTeBAQq1n3eXdly6CpGcqg/s1600/IMG_0826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuBnZiCzmpZqPqoDaGX2H61YWBgfVGCqLoQzuWbK5yrYJFMwLSP3wdLSZonSVm057k0TOslz-J3awj45TSZiLEO5T0WSkSaON34weGclGqtmrn1cilIBE3mlTeBAQq1n3eXdly6CpGcqg/s640/IMG_0826.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl2-JIvRDhD1vDnvRaHhNy8jeCfaAvdZ5UPvReUIMd25Av0VrnnyWZDxCWFvqa5WiqPRQ02Bx06SE5KbY8gwT6YeXzl_QZdptmmOz0o9wYJ6M8hgIIuQkQ9JJNGSIV4gcbFbft2MVJhyphenhyphenc/s1600/IMG_0827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl2-JIvRDhD1vDnvRaHhNy8jeCfaAvdZ5UPvReUIMd25Av0VrnnyWZDxCWFvqa5WiqPRQ02Bx06SE5KbY8gwT6YeXzl_QZdptmmOz0o9wYJ6M8hgIIuQkQ9JJNGSIV4gcbFbft2MVJhyphenhyphenc/s640/IMG_0827.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The staff allowed me to have a go at mixing my own pancake!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_G0FfrghmtP156aVZB-3si7bH63ntVVNik4nOyifodzPhtFeDaytwzgrOw4Ge5hS4Qw58psaH-cSh6vEfUdSoUDSVI_sRfJB_yS1Ae-J1IGu26SWpS0yrt4M2DjlO_17UXpv9JoUoZY/s1600/IMG_0828.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_G0FfrghmtP156aVZB-3si7bH63ntVVNik4nOyifodzPhtFeDaytwzgrOw4Ge5hS4Qw58psaH-cSh6vEfUdSoUDSVI_sRfJB_yS1Ae-J1IGu26SWpS0yrt4M2DjlO_17UXpv9JoUoZY/s640/IMG_0828.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cooking time!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Here at Ajiya, the pancakes range from $12 to $15 depending on your choice of ingredients. It was rather interactive and engaging to watch the food being prepared right in front of you. The boyfriend even had a go at flipping his own pancake. I'd say he did a pretty good job! 😉<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Other items on the menu include signature dishes like the Tako Wasabi ($5), Century Egg Kani Tofu ($7), Shio Koji Tori Karaage ($12) and Scallop Mentai ($14/$22). For us, we decided to keep things simple and ordered a Garlic Fried Rice and a Miso soup to go along with our pancakes.</div>
<div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8mltPhn9l24kx6pe-ByKOWYNU9KTM19xXIu7mK27t_teupj0nk7S1MqRa_m3UtQ28Qf__JlTwCKQ7njddP0x52rhxnXiNHXwhZEXfRz3DG8GIQq-ks3teKN7L6s8nRX6kclXGeMXW8r8/s1600/IMG_0829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8mltPhn9l24kx6pe-ByKOWYNU9KTM19xXIu7mK27t_teupj0nk7S1MqRa_m3UtQ28Qf__JlTwCKQ7njddP0x52rhxnXiNHXwhZEXfRz3DG8GIQq-ks3teKN7L6s8nRX6kclXGeMXW8r8/s640/IMG_0829.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Garlic Fried Rice ($6) and Miso Soup ($3).</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgWRLm1dr4LwnibH7YhSkTSx2IyMQV3DI8w4w1gDw0NrLwgyB7HPuPSifYg_w-NlZdS_VwLy_jGbM3eUT6iezMgEqU0IiSixurGL_wECiiIIfImVm39A7BUOgv-UaYOAjVgh7A9BGvzmo/s1600/IMG_0830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgWRLm1dr4LwnibH7YhSkTSx2IyMQV3DI8w4w1gDw0NrLwgyB7HPuPSifYg_w-NlZdS_VwLy_jGbM3eUT6iezMgEqU0IiSixurGL_wECiiIIfImVm39A7BUOgv-UaYOAjVgh7A9BGvzmo/s640/IMG_0830.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Nom Nom Nom.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Decent; but not the best I've tasted.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOsws2mi30NiljC0H6d5ur-qdE7LU4BNBKqTfEgdM5XpHtiIJokP4FBiIu_GJS_zCsEE7XjT0NDl56lKDEPU6yOynbhRzdqUlcQ7IwUcx4qkm6185Teey4cvw8nfsyKS4cQWZbq5sLXcQ/s1600/IMG_0831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOsws2mi30NiljC0H6d5ur-qdE7LU4BNBKqTfEgdM5XpHtiIJokP4FBiIu_GJS_zCsEE7XjT0NDl56lKDEPU6yOynbhRzdqUlcQ7IwUcx4qkm6185Teey4cvw8nfsyKS4cQWZbq5sLXcQ/s640/IMG_0831.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The one in the foreground is mine!<br />The one in the background? The boy's. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BWIAhNnlFQE/?taken-by=csyep" target="_blank">Link Here</a>.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz-Ayr3-bILDnXo-4-4IbqnZ6YTQX-l_Jyas3OGuR4ji5CVnE7ptI2-j2Nlj5IQWp3Vsd8geAkdgVyx93KOIaEL2CA1393mOH8DNq9TBZ5HkR0uc2zNMLyM9d3J9ChflxRuUaGFdVxzAU/s1600/IMG_0832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz-Ayr3-bILDnXo-4-4IbqnZ6YTQX-l_Jyas3OGuR4ji5CVnE7ptI2-j2Nlj5IQWp3Vsd8geAkdgVyx93KOIaEL2CA1393mOH8DNq9TBZ5HkR0uc2zNMLyM9d3J9ChflxRuUaGFdVxzAU/s640/IMG_0832.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Overall, I have to say that I have had an enjoyable meal here in Ajiya, and I really enjoyed the quiet friendly and cosy atmosphere. It was however a shame that the Garlic Fried Rice and Miso Soup was a tad disappointing - the rice was on the slightly moist and mushy side, while the soup reminded me a little of instant Miso soup.<br />
<br />
<br />
Watch the process here:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/B8xavhnaH7k/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/B8xavhnaH7k?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Having said that, the boyfriend was recommending this place to 2 of his friends while waiting for the Okonomiyaki to cook simply because he felt that this was "a good place to bring girlfriends".<br />
<br />
His words, not mine.<br />
<br />
Anyway, do let me know if you do decide to drop by! It's not Japan, but it's as Japanese as the shop can get!<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><b>Total damage done:</b> $48</i><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7hYWTD_LHBizjryiPoqjkjKZPlxWHOJV9ppS9nUMfvbQj9PdZuixaEEBiHywpwUc9cuTanAPptXGSP8gn0B03djDbgXxZJZbaBR-jZHI4dTh-9sTgpMgCGFTj0Luiikfi8U6OG-ue0X8/s1600/IMG_0833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7hYWTD_LHBizjryiPoqjkjKZPlxWHOJV9ppS9nUMfvbQj9PdZuixaEEBiHywpwUc9cuTanAPptXGSP8gn0B03djDbgXxZJZbaBR-jZHI4dTh-9sTgpMgCGFTj0Luiikfi8U6OG-ue0X8/s640/IMG_0833.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Rilakkuma!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Ajiya Okonomiyaki Restaurant</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<u>Address:</u><br />
104 Jalan Jurong Kechil, Singapore 598603<br />
(Walking distance from Beauty World MRT Station Downtown Line)<br />
<br />
<u>Phone Number:</u><br />
+65 6463 3461<br />
<br />
<u>Opening Hours:</u><br />
(Tues – Sun), Closed Mon<br />
Lunch 12pm – 3pm, Last Order 2:30pm<br />
Dinner 5:30pm – 10pm, Last Order 9:30pm<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">meixii</span></div>
<br />
<span class="fullpost">
</span></div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-62890738781239883422017-06-22T12:00:00.000+08:002017-06-22T18:08:26.854+08:00Tips for Creating Engaging Images<script async defer data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-tall="true" data-pin-save="true" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"<i>A picture is worth a thousand words</i>."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">As cliche as this may sound, research has shown that </span><span style="font-size: large;">the average person</span><span style="font-size: large;"> remembers and engage with visual images much easier and better than words.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
This is especially prominent in this time and age, where social media marketing is gaining momentum in reaching & targeting audiences. Images have never been more important, and they’re the key to driving greater online engagement. This is basically advertising!<br />
<br />
The only issue here is that if you are like me, and you aren’t god-like-skilled in graphic design, creating eye-catching engaging images can be difficult. So how can self-taught non-trained designers like us still create incredible images for social media?<br />
<br />
One way is by learning simple, repeatable design principles.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx34LnpcYqLaqdQp-39q79U-6KeCMD4876508lEHNXU_icFiiwj0sMUw0JSPh-EUacjCgjlTPUBsZ_d8ilxWDezcLp0CI42Q_gyaieUemBxzV2CLbN-p6SZPqONmAaGZRI7AOnx1O3r2w/s1600/woman-791185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx34LnpcYqLaqdQp-39q79U-6KeCMD4876508lEHNXU_icFiiwj0sMUw0JSPh-EUacjCgjlTPUBsZ_d8ilxWDezcLp0CI42Q_gyaieUemBxzV2CLbN-p6SZPqONmAaGZRI7AOnx1O3r2w/s640/woman-791185.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br />
To begin, I'll be using a lot of this graphic image of mine as a reference for comparison. This is one of my very first few graphic creations, which was drawn for Mother's Day 2017.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYSz4x5LTHRVm7SB4YQFiSIYvuPVSSvt8IC61fxjDgDWVgtmxk7kl_6ptU0FMqA6xTqBfq4BL4DEppo0OFwLikYrc6iDXIDszWnwti4azsXlA7A3Wstgn2CMZuH-KM_5zvARosHQWWj4/s1600/Behind+Every+Mom+is+a+Basket+of+Laundry+0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1240" data-original-width="1240" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYSz4x5LTHRVm7SB4YQFiSIYvuPVSSvt8IC61fxjDgDWVgtmxk7kl_6ptU0FMqA6xTqBfq4BL4DEppo0OFwLikYrc6iDXIDszWnwti4azsXlA7A3Wstgn2CMZuH-KM_5zvARosHQWWj4/s320/Behind+Every+Mom+is+a+Basket+of+Laundry+0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1. The Font Type Matters</h3>
<div>
<div>
When you use fonts in a photo/graphic image/picture they communicate a message about you and your brand. For an example, for this graphic image that I have created for Mother's Day 2017, here are two image alternatives — which one do you prefer?</div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
Personally, I prefer the original image on the left because:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>It’s easier to read.</li>
<li>The fonts appear complimentary</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<br />
This doesn’t mean the other image is horrible, but it does help focus the reader onto the text.</div>
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ7hORg8X6ph5CZQMKcIVKsn81WZ2vua7JyE4PUeN9AI3smhRCeAzBVfNRF26rGHWzCsdvgvnos2v5OtU-1A2QfDXTFvBes7U-yaLkFxqn2xeTtVnDggj5aJ02JJMWu2MVl6IbbouwtxM/s1600/Behind+Every+Mom+is+a+Basket+of+Laundry+1_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="797" data-original-width="1600" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ7hORg8X6ph5CZQMKcIVKsn81WZ2vua7JyE4PUeN9AI3smhRCeAzBVfNRF26rGHWzCsdvgvnos2v5OtU-1A2QfDXTFvBes7U-yaLkFxqn2xeTtVnDggj5aJ02JJMWu2MVl6IbbouwtxM/s640/Behind+Every+Mom+is+a+Basket+of+Laundry+1_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">My Mother's Day <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BTnh1hQAA6_/?taken-by=this.cache" target="_blank">Graphic Image for Instagram</a>.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's another image that I have created for my previous post on <a href="https://thiscache.blogspot.com/2017/05/how-i-travelled-to-venice-on-budget.html" target="_blank">Travelling to Venice On A Budget</a>. Notice how the image on the left appears cleaner, with the use of a readable type. If words are meant to be read, why do so many people make it so difficult to do just that?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
By simply making your words clean and easy to read, you would have won half the battle!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwuSRa4J5XrhdP8gl-jXmmaYIouyaaNVf5VlQPWxXWLinOWo613TLSWt4K6-x6awPxyjvRJPIJ2qR2J24fp7YM4Q0-41_ukYRkzxY1F9LP2psGnGrcv0cfhRHZTp7gaAsbnjuFIDqcyro/s1600/venice-2048971__482.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="722" data-original-width="1022" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwuSRa4J5XrhdP8gl-jXmmaYIouyaaNVf5VlQPWxXWLinOWo613TLSWt4K6-x6awPxyjvRJPIJ2qR2J24fp7YM4Q0-41_ukYRkzxY1F9LP2psGnGrcv0cfhRHZTp7gaAsbnjuFIDqcyro/s640/venice-2048971__482.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Read more about how you can travel to <a href="https://thiscache.blogspot.com/2017/05/how-i-travelled-to-venice-on-budget.html" target="_blank">Venice on a budget</a>!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
As a tip, here is how i'd advise you guys to select fonts for your images:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Less is more. Simple > fancy.</li>
<li>Be consistent — try to use the same font repeatedly.</li>
<li>When adding a second font, go for something super different but equally simple.</li>
<li>Use sites such as <a href="http://fontpair.co/" target="_blank">Font Pair</a> to help you decide which fonts go well together.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
2. Colours Affect The Mood and Message</h3>
<div>
<div>
People often underestimate the effect of colour on them. Colour is not just a visual element — it’s also emotional. The choice of colour ultimately affects your bottom line in branding, packaging, web design, interiors, product design and fashion.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And because colour bring out certain emotions in people, it can often determine whether or not people are drawn to your images. This doesn't mean that you should stay away from particular hues, but what it does mean is that it’s important to think about the message and tone you want to convey in your creations.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>A key principle when it comes to colour is to keep it simple because less is often more.</i></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Coming back to this graphic image that I have created for Mother's Day 2017, here are four image alternatives, featuring different coloured backgrounds. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7qR4x2dmt25tnin81YsvLwXw9UVvid1ze1AL7zmI-r90p5dFD9z69I4_8BMtqypldDB9OGEmXolmyr9s9PFBmkHAJHxqaCuRqdkXdvA4DX_7P0ElT7MYVexAF4qyCuGIdN2UERsukm9k/s1600/Behind+Every+Mom+is+a+Basket+of+Laundry+4_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7qR4x2dmt25tnin81YsvLwXw9UVvid1ze1AL7zmI-r90p5dFD9z69I4_8BMtqypldDB9OGEmXolmyr9s9PFBmkHAJHxqaCuRqdkXdvA4DX_7P0ElT7MYVexAF4qyCuGIdN2UERsukm9k/s640/Behind+Every+Mom+is+a+Basket+of+Laundry+4_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">My Mother's Day <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BTnh1hQAA6_/?taken-by=this.cache" target="_blank">Graphic Image for Instagram</a>.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
You'd notice that the original pink colour evokes a compassionate, nurturing and loving vibe among the other colours. While in contrast, the blue colour seems to covey meanings of order, security and confidence. I wouldn't be favouring the green version simply because the colour is too light and there is a lack of contrast, making the words difficult to read.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>One should note that a simple act of creating contrast in your images can do wonders.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In this case, it would only be apt to use the pink coloured version considering that this is a Mother's Day image meant to thank all the selfless mummies out there.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><i>"Colours are the mother tongue of the subconcious" -- Carl Gustav Jung</i></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
3. Overall Layout and Font Size</h3>
Once again, I'd like to re-use this graphic image with two image alternatives. I believe the first thing that would strike you is the location of the words on the image.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjM5XhKIJShvRJ4QVEe70UKUQhfSeF7ors57Lo6g3YJP6NPisb5RhoNNYCDxwiM1NtpKHC4xeB2HcyrViMUGEOzsSNjPD1XTVsFltK-_ejJd2ZWFJ29OO8u_WHIGeY4GgsLajEBjVoQvI/s1600/Behind+Every+Mom+is+a+Basket+of+Laundry+5_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="797" data-original-width="1600" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjM5XhKIJShvRJ4QVEe70UKUQhfSeF7ors57Lo6g3YJP6NPisb5RhoNNYCDxwiM1NtpKHC4xeB2HcyrViMUGEOzsSNjPD1XTVsFltK-_ejJd2ZWFJ29OO8u_WHIGeY4GgsLajEBjVoQvI/s640/Behind+Every+Mom+is+a+Basket+of+Laundry+5_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">My Mother's Day <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BTnh1hQAA6_/?taken-by=this.cache" target="_blank">Graphic Image for Instagram</a>.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Both images contain the same content; nothing was removed, yet in the first picture — with a slightly altered layout — it just looks better, at least to me! Here, you should be able to tell that the layout of elements in your images makes a huge difference.<br />
<br />
In the first version, the words take up a <u>larger space</u> on the image, bringing more focus and attention to the words to be conveyed. The words are also sized and aligned such that the alignment of the elements are more in balance. These little adjustments all contribute to making the first image appear balanced and engaging.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifdHJaU11Ss43Xme2B0bOVsOeeDbuVsEPIcnMh-KRvUOWxZnZctfN1GL6DMCYVz810Z7OMtiCfVTMYE7Y8Y28HV6-_zGVtj5Qlz77Ez5j_PQTRG_3Zq7mydRyqI7tHa_pMPFkrMk-CZzE/s1600/Behind+Every+Mom+is+a+Basket+of+Laundry+5_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="797" data-original-width="1600" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifdHJaU11Ss43Xme2B0bOVsOeeDbuVsEPIcnMh-KRvUOWxZnZctfN1GL6DMCYVz810Z7OMtiCfVTMYE7Y8Y28HV6-_zGVtj5Qlz77Ez5j_PQTRG_3Zq7mydRyqI7tHa_pMPFkrMk-CZzE/s640/Behind+Every+Mom+is+a+Basket+of+Laundry+5_2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Another example would be this image that I have created for a personal post on <a href="https://thiscache.blogspot.com/2017/05/depression-is-for-weak.html" target="_blank">Depression</a>. Notice the layout of the words and positioning on the image. Which one do you prefer?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTJCdZhCT5-1FzEqzfIBh1MdMn-m4EZLfg0joxi8NXjqPtuEQURdch3JaLucnxYNPET6QW7epPhnVAkgc3h1ovVr930QVmUwxFSPBofcbActwUXVSnhDFrhmLaCj9Z8h7I27svLPNl4U/s1600/pexels-photo-120270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="650" data-original-width="982" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTJCdZhCT5-1FzEqzfIBh1MdMn-m4EZLfg0joxi8NXjqPtuEQURdch3JaLucnxYNPET6QW7epPhnVAkgc3h1ovVr930QVmUwxFSPBofcbActwUXVSnhDFrhmLaCj9Z8h7I27svLPNl4U/s640/pexels-photo-120270.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">A heart-felt sensitive post on <a href="https://thiscache.blogspot.com/2017/05/depression-is-for-weak.html" target="_blank">Depression</a>.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
These tips here aren't extensive, but I hope it was of help and had provided you some form of a guide when creating your visual contents. Let me know what other tips you have up your sleeve! I'd love to learn from you lovely people too.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">meixii</span> </div>
</div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-79929372906217629572017-06-19T12:00:00.000+08:002017-06-19T23:38:00.953+08:00DIY Alphabet Embroidery (Free Stencil)<script async="" data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-save="true" data-pin-tall="true" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>
<br />
<div>
Just the other day, I chanced upon this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I99RKIE?ie=UTF8&tag=thiscache-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B00I99RKIE" target="_blank">Amy Tangerine Plus One</a> Collection and I had this fantastic idea of creating a free stencil for alphabet embroidery. Picture this; a paper alphabet stencil with markings that may be placed on top of your fabric, and sewn through at specific points that had been marked. After sewing, you tear away the paper stencil and viola! Sounds feasible isn't it?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiajc88TEw_rqbx4ldu96v5_VxO1DV1fBzZ1vVgqF3_ErlmteQXhgu06jner-RVx7sQwOrwigffZrgnsRZC1fsBy-h5_IybVVs3gApcLU7JnbYYX0Lzo53Svs0O8QoB1AtTSjDPdDxyWRQ/s1600/monogram-bag-black.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="700" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiajc88TEw_rqbx4ldu96v5_VxO1DV1fBzZ1vVgqF3_ErlmteQXhgu06jner-RVx7sQwOrwigffZrgnsRZC1fsBy-h5_IybVVs3gApcLU7JnbYYX0Lzo53Svs0O8QoB1AtTSjDPdDxyWRQ/s400/monogram-bag-black.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Amy Tangerine Plus One Collection</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<br />
However, this being my first attempt at embroidery, and this being a new technique that I am testing out, it didn't go exactly as planned - as per all "real life scenarios".<br />
Here, let me walk you through the <strike>road of shame</strike> whole process and show you what I came up with as a solution.<br />
<div>
<br />
<br />
So first of all, this is the alphabet stencil that I have created in my stroke of genius.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiLVigO4XD553ib9ljzhun6OXqBeZiqBNdJsRk4AFP6tHd5u654TTcJDUdrDHKgnDGUgjVJvB7sEbOd3Gppzs6NOGw9JaNve2dmZswklnbEB8HIpMRIQlBaCZGCsIJMenwYwKVmoXxFBE/s1600/Embroidery+Alphabets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1132" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiLVigO4XD553ib9ljzhun6OXqBeZiqBNdJsRk4AFP6tHd5u654TTcJDUdrDHKgnDGUgjVJvB7sEbOd3Gppzs6NOGw9JaNve2dmZswklnbEB8HIpMRIQlBaCZGCsIJMenwYwKVmoXxFBE/s400/Embroidery+Alphabets.jpg" width="282" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To begin, I gathered all the required materials:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Caydo-Pieces-Embroidery-Bamboo-Circle/dp/B01G3VZ5LS/ref=as_sl_pc_tf_til?tag=thiscache-20&linkCode=w00&linkId=6b5fe23b8af888288acddd15230eb6eb&creativeASIN=B01G3VZ5LS" target="_blank">Embroidery Hoop</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FDKIUB2?ie=UTF8" target="_blank">Embroidery Floss</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0053A2HZI?ie=UTF8" target="_blank">Embroidery Needle</a></li>
<li>Alphabet Stencil</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0l0dEtWv6sOnj2ycLzmwNeO56MpwJK8biYP_xutlwqcJZtzKxiR98HvKERECZa-fa8JbfDyUHTFyf76QLL5lmL-2LRfAoYP-lYHffeoRtAXzT3GEkJXIHF-Q1Q0FNPI_zLqaF_RKEPds/s1600/IMG_0228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0l0dEtWv6sOnj2ycLzmwNeO56MpwJK8biYP_xutlwqcJZtzKxiR98HvKERECZa-fa8JbfDyUHTFyf76QLL5lmL-2LRfAoYP-lYHffeoRtAXzT3GEkJXIHF-Q1Q0FNPI_zLqaF_RKEPds/s400/IMG_0228.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6HXBbOH3uvEkxyvfr07j8pTRT98rzBdv2i3-BtHebMvgQ7zZM7wbLU2E5UEG26b2GYu6o7PtaW4dELYx7214R_b9QnEQY1mblmOkvNy5A2ISNEha2wfO28uqHu_us7V-vflM6FECPEc/s1600/IMG_0229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6HXBbOH3uvEkxyvfr07j8pTRT98rzBdv2i3-BtHebMvgQ7zZM7wbLU2E5UEG26b2GYu6o7PtaW4dELYx7214R_b9QnEQY1mblmOkvNy5A2ISNEha2wfO28uqHu_us7V-vflM6FECPEc/s400/IMG_0229.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Attaching the hoop to the desired location.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj45PzfERZgyXNeV1nUnKebowE-fXpBt_AZaEPAbOWiMykN1CmSVu5qMrz0-Qqu6xQPTY2NEnpCZkaLnv4hDhzRmNULd_y2EbeE9Dc0VP5WUuymKHy2LMnDSlVMBLbt0UXDXofShoHSKxw/s1600/IMG_0231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj45PzfERZgyXNeV1nUnKebowE-fXpBt_AZaEPAbOWiMykN1CmSVu5qMrz0-Qqu6xQPTY2NEnpCZkaLnv4hDhzRmNULd_y2EbeE9Dc0VP5WUuymKHy2LMnDSlVMBLbt0UXDXofShoHSKxw/s400/IMG_0231.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2dEe9lXvjF_WW4X5XFSh5V8sOSldz8e37QQ61hoG7i1t4D8N6MLEY3cdiAYMK9W4druxHMIU5bfIFU7FQI200_epDD57sOkg8y1_RISMmU97OvsWjoC6i86bCBVs7eAnCZLTtQSLGkI/s1600/IMG_0232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2dEe9lXvjF_WW4X5XFSh5V8sOSldz8e37QQ61hoG7i1t4D8N6MLEY3cdiAYMK9W4druxHMIU5bfIFU7FQI200_epDD57sOkg8y1_RISMmU97OvsWjoC6i86bCBVs7eAnCZLTtQSLGkI/s400/IMG_0232.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">*** NOTE to NOT tie a knot at the end of the needle.***<br />I'll be a problem when sewing!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And here I have, attempting to embroider on my shirt via the method that I have envisioned. I was eager to start on my project and I used the embroidery floss directly, off the skein. Looks pretty decent here isn't it?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihRPnT5GYZbIaqfcL6kHJyOvBmGMTAt-LLIxjY0cNbWF41In-QHUm9wPx8vwPMBTVRVvS2MpnribA-EBuUeOldGBMNUZoLTe7WMwaSgPFBQT5K2GInPodWXIqdzhMYBVgwqno6gS-gGjM/s1600/IMG_0233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihRPnT5GYZbIaqfcL6kHJyOvBmGMTAt-LLIxjY0cNbWF41In-QHUm9wPx8vwPMBTVRVvS2MpnribA-EBuUeOldGBMNUZoLTe7WMwaSgPFBQT5K2GInPodWXIqdzhMYBVgwqno6gS-gGjM/s400/IMG_0233.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Apparently not.</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Because what revealed after I tore away the paper, was an ugly mess. The stitches weren't equally spaced and the needle created large, unsightly <u>holes</u> in my cotton shirt that were too big for the embroidery floss. That's what you get from not being able to see the needle emerging from the fabric.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Additionally, the huge holes should have been good indication that the needle was too big for this purpose (however, being new at this, I thought the issue was with my sewing method).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I would have shared a photo of my miserable attempt if I hadn't been so upset by the outcome, that I had forgotten to capture that visual moment in time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><u><br /></u></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><u><i>Additional Tip:</i></u></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><u><i><br /></i></u></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><i>The easiest way to get rid of pin holes, generally is to dampen the fabric using water from a spray bottle. Subsequently, leave the damp fabric to sit for a while, to allow fibers to relax and spring back into position. If required, use a steam iron on the fabric.</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><i>If the steps above is not sufficient, wash the fabric (if the piece is washable). Do follow the laundry or fabric-care guide, this option generally removes/shrinks most holes.</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Between my ignorance and failed attempt, I came up with a different technique in an attempt to solve the issues faced. This time, I decided to place the stencil over the fabric, piercing through both the paper and the fabric thereby creating holes as markings for the subsequent embroidery step. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once again, I used the embroidery floss directly off the skein, creating thick lettering outlines. This time, the stitches were nicely spaced and neat, and I thought, hey, I did it! This works!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie2T3-di-oukSlkOeh0LetpxUYT2RN8SBcaln3eFQvFGNuxZQv0q-zeOqYL-kbScGv8if4WdCQYlklacPEo4-mB_gOw1Ri2HUwFW5I-S0QaH5mmCmWFZUHlOdsLh7ESs-UATycYFTpqlg/s1600/IMG_0234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie2T3-di-oukSlkOeh0LetpxUYT2RN8SBcaln3eFQvFGNuxZQv0q-zeOqYL-kbScGv8if4WdCQYlklacPEo4-mB_gOw1Ri2HUwFW5I-S0QaH5mmCmWFZUHlOdsLh7ESs-UATycYFTpqlg/s400/IMG_0234.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Kza0byAAUnIbBfFV1DgvNVX6Vj47DH2xqyDDQPwc3ckr8F7HgCHwB9zg9ozXdHNMK4mGlts0Nl-u2WL5kVF6sjpnf3Pgvf5_nlW2QDgTw6_40CvwsMz9zz1hrauWsZuqOkJzEnRYi4E/s1600/IMG_0235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Kza0byAAUnIbBfFV1DgvNVX6Vj47DH2xqyDDQPwc3ckr8F7HgCHwB9zg9ozXdHNMK4mGlts0Nl-u2WL5kVF6sjpnf3Pgvf5_nlW2QDgTw6_40CvwsMz9zz1hrauWsZuqOkJzEnRYi4E/s400/IMG_0235.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Holes created in the fabric as markings.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-6oEJSgsG_1kuGb8-faUgNLHOrzVgBvUSXHUdo-PL_ZEHubqvXyDwvedPKh9F7n5Nwd2M05or_h0EMxxNRmVhJG37TV7WKsuTHPLlkv5ILem6ipZbX9TK17qwtE4lRZVndGfM9bJE0Y/s1600/IMG_0241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-6oEJSgsG_1kuGb8-faUgNLHOrzVgBvUSXHUdo-PL_ZEHubqvXyDwvedPKh9F7n5Nwd2M05or_h0EMxxNRmVhJG37TV7WKsuTHPLlkv5ILem6ipZbX9TK17qwtE4lRZVndGfM9bJE0Y/s400/IMG_0241.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Later on in the week, I decided to drop by a local craft shop to purchase smaller embroidery needles for my craft and through a casual but very informative conversation with the staff, I learnt that the ridiculously large needle that I had been using was in fact a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0042SYTTY?ie=UTF8" target="_blank">size 14 chenille needle</a>. Just in case you new in this (like me) and is wondering, a chenille needle is a needle with a long eye and a sharp tip with sizes ranging from 13 to 26.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
With this, the lady suggested that I purchase a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002RS7XG2?ie=UTF8" target="_blank">size 7 embroidery needle</a> for a better and smaller fit. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><i><u>Additional Tip:</u></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><i><u><br /></u></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><i>In the case of needles, the lower the number, the larger the needle.</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><i>The higher the number, the finer the needle.</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Additionally, I learnt (to my surprise) that the embroidery floss could be separated into individual strands to customize its thickness. It then occurred to me that the same skein of floss could be used 6 times more if I separated my floss into the 6 individual strands (hey, monetary savings!).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><span style="color: #e06666;"><u>Additional Tip:</u></span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<u><i><span style="color: #e06666;"><br /></span></i></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><span style="color: #e06666;">To separate the floss's strands, take your skein and find the tail that sticks out. Pull the tail out from the skein slowly until you have your required length of floss and cut it off. </span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><span style="color: #e06666;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><span style="color: #e06666;">If you'd like to separate the thread into individual strands, pull one strand up and out slowly until it's fully separated from the others.</span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<span class="fullpost">
</span>
<br />
<div>
<br />
<br />
With this newly gained information, I decided to use 3 threads from my floss, along with the new embroidery needle. I also decided to experiment with a new method, where I cut out individual letters for stenciling. I also made extra care to ensure that the needle entered at a right angle to the fabric.<br />
<br />
Using another cotton tee of mine, this was what resulted.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB6Ff-R2-6u42PdYlpFtXkaR8WXi-ykNSExYAy51gg2uW9m2x-d6yibpOca6EBS95_GX5o7DfUIxGskCJ0f0HMLzfMlZ_v76A5xk4o4BAf3lorGGHYRYacDS7osOH0nU9GGVanLudqNw4/s1600/IMG_0236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB6Ff-R2-6u42PdYlpFtXkaR8WXi-ykNSExYAy51gg2uW9m2x-d6yibpOca6EBS95_GX5o7DfUIxGskCJ0f0HMLzfMlZ_v76A5xk4o4BAf3lorGGHYRYacDS7osOH0nU9GGVanLudqNw4/s400/IMG_0236.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwhwRsB8mVaSCqvK-7kmEdhZRDJK3E6Pxw-LB97GKKq9ZnfyxWMJcUMlJSDuOZhRsitneXsh2OCF262IFPjIw_3sTvjWkMYjPcHdem3uSnvkjz2pYUxVtBJpiKe5elUkvFDC6FVg40LlM/s1600/IMG_0237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwhwRsB8mVaSCqvK-7kmEdhZRDJK3E6Pxw-LB97GKKq9ZnfyxWMJcUMlJSDuOZhRsitneXsh2OCF262IFPjIw_3sTvjWkMYjPcHdem3uSnvkjz2pYUxVtBJpiKe5elUkvFDC6FVg40LlM/s400/IMG_0237.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Looks pretty good!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM7dcxUEk2FNUI0W3ruDHtnoTmu_1J0iQYhtalpthlso8JvEu1uVQgewfzaK23HfHmR7TNfzMFqW0uoKfnq0LPAzzYEvGJ04wxz6RoEFIvfIqzOOQ-Vrxv5xfgmBLoTMmgEzWIW1_2sP8/s1600/IMG_0238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM7dcxUEk2FNUI0W3ruDHtnoTmu_1J0iQYhtalpthlso8JvEu1uVQgewfzaK23HfHmR7TNfzMFqW0uoKfnq0LPAzzYEvGJ04wxz6RoEFIvfIqzOOQ-Vrxv5xfgmBLoTMmgEzWIW1_2sP8/s320/IMG_0238.JPG" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tearing away the paper stencil carefully.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF3dFkfqn9BHkgjxTNQ2SQ4Bs6PMBZB6Oym-3mDG9miGBQa06b25bzycIibGeBkY52HazHeuDY0i52w9XWbefI_Z0v2AMAxjHsssmlYvpKrplqdWHiSS3ekQNS5E5YZd_k04T6l5eythI/s1600/IMG_0240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF3dFkfqn9BHkgjxTNQ2SQ4Bs6PMBZB6Oym-3mDG9miGBQa06b25bzycIibGeBkY52HazHeuDY0i52w9XWbefI_Z0v2AMAxjHsssmlYvpKrplqdWHiSS3ekQNS5E5YZd_k04T6l5eythI/s320/IMG_0240.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Success!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div>
One might note that the threads aren't exactly "tight". This was done intentionally, to accommodate stretching when the shirt is worn. The whole thing worked out perfectly in the end, and I'd like to consider this a successful attempt at embroidery.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'd have to try this out again another time (hopefully, sooner and not later) to improve my embroidery skills. Here, I have used the back stitch technique to create a solid line which is good for hand embroidering text or outlining a design. I personally found this video by HandiWorks great for the learning process. Do have a look if you are interested in learning!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/kKnBUa4l2k4/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kKnBUa4l2k4?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Best of luck to all of you lovely people who are about to attempt your very own version of the alphabet embroidery. I hope you enjoyed reading this post, and have learnt a lot from me and my mistakes!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/jx7vwy9h6g7q06r/Embroidery%20Alphabet.pdf?dl=0" target="_blank">Download Your Alphabet Stencil Here</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">meixii</span></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-59448148373325043922017-06-05T12:00:00.000+08:002017-06-06T18:26:35.013+08:005 Free Father's Day Printable Cards<script async defer data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-tall="true" data-pin-save="true" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script><span class="fullpost">
</span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span class="fullpost">Happy (almost) Father’s Day to every single dad out there!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span class="fullpost">Father's Day is on the 18th of June this year! Have you prepared your gifts?</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Throughout my growing years, I always find myself getting into a rut, figuring out what to get for my father. He never seem to need anything, and neither has he requested for something. Even if he did want something, he was in a better financial position than me to get the things he wanted.... so what's a daughter got to do with no income?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
This year, it is no exception, and so I thought about creating a Father’s Day card on Photoshop for my dad. Well, if I can't get him the presents he wanted, the least I could do was to make him a card isn't it? Anyway while making him a card, I figured while I was at it I could just create several and put them up here for any of you lovely people to use for that father figure in your life.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I have created 2 versions of the same card, and will include the downloadable PDF link right below the images of each card. Do have a look and let me know what you think! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
I personally am in love with the vibrant colours used in these cards. Whoever said that fathers can't have some colours in their lives?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="fullpost"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwyuuQ4yJaemugXxNOESNUSqT3snHvfadd7sQzBuByTG5XckBKE9G2L-DIq-6zi1UytB5Kf-k18kbExF4Uy85T0X75E8NV7f7EGTL56qADkvJ6FVikib1pakCTvby4dIdJ7BHX_cNeSs/s1600/1.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="1600" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwyuuQ4yJaemugXxNOESNUSqT3snHvfadd7sQzBuByTG5XckBKE9G2L-DIq-6zi1UytB5Kf-k18kbExF4Uy85T0X75E8NV7f7EGTL56qADkvJ6FVikib1pakCTvby4dIdJ7BHX_cNeSs/s640/1.2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/hk4zhangf4zyd11/1.1.jpg?dl=0" target="_blank">Click here</a> to download the white version.<br /><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/gq56z3fqd2tb4ox/1.jpg?dl=0" target="_blank">Click here</a> to download the coloured version.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span class="fullpost"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgifA0Xp8mrXoV8PNTlQw8tqwc5IZzCnbz5cLe5Tem9WlQOXWe6LhdYBJEWNx_F3G2DQcQM4orzULE1YmyXEijLraihB0r4AEhvpDbZE7QfGe_W4sqDlDbsTrPcb3ftajAWtrIUXsqy4A0/s1600/2.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="1600" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgifA0Xp8mrXoV8PNTlQw8tqwc5IZzCnbz5cLe5Tem9WlQOXWe6LhdYBJEWNx_F3G2DQcQM4orzULE1YmyXEijLraihB0r4AEhvpDbZE7QfGe_W4sqDlDbsTrPcb3ftajAWtrIUXsqy4A0/s640/2.2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/pp51oecyv8ekt7i/2.jpg?dl=0" target="_blank">Click here</a> to download the white version.<br /><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/i87ax40h2n1uh4c/2.1.jpg?dl=0" target="_blank">Click here</a> to download the coloured version.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="fullpost"></span></div>
<br />
<span class="fullpost"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ruVEsTtXHrXU0cZV9wBiKLmAM37q_9VX9fw7O_bd68YXqW6lnNvIqh60sbdMV7eopsMjAtBXTu3kETI4iBjbx2kgIRSzxYncQX_Uk2MMEcPvvoxnF_I3MNtf9sVObsjIxbwlR_2nYtA/s1600/3.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="1600" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ruVEsTtXHrXU0cZV9wBiKLmAM37q_9VX9fw7O_bd68YXqW6lnNvIqh60sbdMV7eopsMjAtBXTu3kETI4iBjbx2kgIRSzxYncQX_Uk2MMEcPvvoxnF_I3MNtf9sVObsjIxbwlR_2nYtA/s640/3.2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/tmvoqrzkzpacw1s/3.jpg?dl=0" target="_blank">Click here</a> to download the white version.<br /><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/8nru52je42k9rxm/3.1.jpg?dl=0" target="_blank">Click here</a> to download the coloured version.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="fullpost"></span></div>
<br />
<span class="fullpost"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgfE4701gnBljNC5Yf4ulQ6cMCuZU-iUWQfHkMcsMcVZDy64fFHjArbDGzc27oKN7rCqNV8mz2EBBJVWFhxHBPunYy_svP55O2KEys85mAzwvhPpgSqzhpG8aSZIKb3MBZesLQqYUdPgY/s1600/4.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="1600" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgfE4701gnBljNC5Yf4ulQ6cMCuZU-iUWQfHkMcsMcVZDy64fFHjArbDGzc27oKN7rCqNV8mz2EBBJVWFhxHBPunYy_svP55O2KEys85mAzwvhPpgSqzhpG8aSZIKb3MBZesLQqYUdPgY/s640/4.2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/v9j68thko349trq/4.jpg?dl=0" target="_blank">Click here</a> to download the white version.<br /><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/0yr9esrp4w97o2h/4.1.jpg?dl=0" target="_blank">Click here</a> to download the coloured version.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="fullpost"></span></div>
<br />
<span class="fullpost"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOWlivzjoN3OQ386RPtgxFsxXMPSk1rAka94H6V_E-PzAisSTdmX7CmoTIqScKriUUQDW_NBjAJmxEXHOakXgKJb7b6zBZhfbrqFOT6JnEF-1QC7zlsu0hkHI9xiQK0nWRi_VpYCwjjEk/s1600/5.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="1600" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOWlivzjoN3OQ386RPtgxFsxXMPSk1rAka94H6V_E-PzAisSTdmX7CmoTIqScKriUUQDW_NBjAJmxEXHOakXgKJb7b6zBZhfbrqFOT6JnEF-1QC7zlsu0hkHI9xiQK0nWRi_VpYCwjjEk/s640/5.2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/ysmu4bcrd5tuvvj/5.1.jpg?dl=0" target="_blank">Click here</a> to download the white version.<br /><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/6mrz0x0a8nuajqd/5.jpg?dl=0" target="_blank">Click here</a> to download the coloured version.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">I'm hoping that you guys love these graphic cards as much as I do! </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">I made this with lots of love and effort, to celebrate all fathers out there!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Once again, Happy Father's Day!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange; font-size: small;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: orange; font-size: small;"></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange; font-size: small;">meixii</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: medium; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="fullpost"></span></div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-66416916082810372892017-06-01T12:00:00.000+08:002017-06-01T17:16:53.789+08:00Easy Minimalist Triangular Coin Pouch for Guys<script async="" data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-save="true" data-pin-tall="true" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggg6HGg-ZBzgVWT2Co56GJETSzBb58j8KMgnk_TAVLeRZHG0Ho5JqtmXEQIY3PImbIBSBQUIGz3pGbTid2tdcSFG75J3LsoZVSt29TOkvu0ZNq-MvkMvHl1D_aB_sgteDoJHlWBNLfhUg/s1600/IMG_8985_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggg6HGg-ZBzgVWT2Co56GJETSzBb58j8KMgnk_TAVLeRZHG0Ho5JqtmXEQIY3PImbIBSBQUIGz3pGbTid2tdcSFG75J3LsoZVSt29TOkvu0ZNq-MvkMvHl1D_aB_sgteDoJHlWBNLfhUg/s400/IMG_8985_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Simple, minimalist and triangular. This easy coin pouch tutorial was something that I created for the boyfriend to organise and carry all of his coins in his pocket. I was bothered by the manner in which he dumped his wallet/all his coins/receipts into his pocket and so I just had to get that sorted.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Messy boyfriend, sounds familiar anyone?</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To be honest, this pouch could be used for anything, from storing coins, to sweets, to earphones. Part of the appeal of this is having the flexibility of deciding your own fabric combination. What you choose will depend on who is the end user and what would suit the user in terms of style and tone.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<u>TO GET STARTED:</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b>Supplies Needed:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>2 Pieces of Fabric - Canvas or Cotton. </li>
<li>Fusible Interfacing (this is used to stiffen soft fabrics).</li>
<li>Paper Pattern</li>
<li>Snap Fasteners</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-4odcAaRYtw6xFQh0uq8sw_dyIZY0KdWHMScKJVq78EzOy3cx_-WT7q8TfKbMVP1NU5gZsue_62XB6tH5KKCujs1FtPXZgGo2yf0Y_ZOjGiAeEsu2q3MfPPHZ0jC_3rZkScjSDZrHJic/s1600/IMG_8990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-4odcAaRYtw6xFQh0uq8sw_dyIZY0KdWHMScKJVq78EzOy3cx_-WT7q8TfKbMVP1NU5gZsue_62XB6tH5KKCujs1FtPXZgGo2yf0Y_ZOjGiAeEsu2q3MfPPHZ0jC_3rZkScjSDZrHJic/s400/IMG_8990.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<b>Instructions:</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Cut out rectangles out of the 2 fabrics and interfacing that are approximately the same size as the pattern. Here, I am using the blue striped fabric as the outer material of the pouch, and the canvas as the inner lining.<br />
<br />
I have already traced out the shape of the fabric to be cut using a pencil, based on the paper pattern.<br />
(Hold on till the end!!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrOe2f8ND6dN7Zib-HYKxVsbSdRXwFH1EpxluFbBYhJxsjMF1fw2YFuNY8uylQG3SdN0d-dhXFeC27CyOtwMPCass1cXPZjR6sq3pBY5is7as832VjgS4qcG1ig7PvKTJ-Mlj-lCsrEno/s1600/IMG_8989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrOe2f8ND6dN7Zib-HYKxVsbSdRXwFH1EpxluFbBYhJxsjMF1fw2YFuNY8uylQG3SdN0d-dhXFeC27CyOtwMPCass1cXPZjR6sq3pBY5is7as832VjgS4qcG1ig7PvKTJ-Mlj-lCsrEno/s400/IMG_8989.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
To apply the interfacing, lay the fusible side of the interfacing down on top of the fabric and place a damp pressing cloth (I personally use an unwanted tea towel) on top of the interfacing. Press down using an iron for 15 seconds (10 for thinner fabrics). Do avoid gliding the iron across the fabric as you risk shifting the layers of fabric and interfacing.<br />
<br />
If you skip the pressing cloth, you may end up with fusible interfacing stuck to your iron. This is definitely not something you'll want happening to you, so do check that your pressing cloth is covering the entire piece of fabric and interfacing.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHh9eFIb8SiZtMLYxhBrz0ShnTDlhozkV6enK6d9rFZKL6ylJkXHwUQRI7zQQoxCooa_p8J13Y5i0FHMJ3LWEGHpEXB3nqJmmbrE1IN_IllxMT-mP2iUGsa2gc3tisqyL1dXtHteB9sb4/s1600/IMG_8941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHh9eFIb8SiZtMLYxhBrz0ShnTDlhozkV6enK6d9rFZKL6ylJkXHwUQRI7zQQoxCooa_p8J13Y5i0FHMJ3LWEGHpEXB3nqJmmbrE1IN_IllxMT-mP2iUGsa2gc3tisqyL1dXtHteB9sb4/s400/IMG_8941.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">My fabric and interfacing shifted a little.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Next, pin the 2 layers together making sure that the right sides are facing each other and cut out the fabric according to the paper pattern. To make the pouch, sew the seam all around along the edges, leaving about 1/2 inch sewing margin (see red dotted line). </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Take care to leave about 1 - 2 inches un-sewn to allow for the pouch to be flipped inside out, thereby hiding the seam.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7y8pZQM9rsHxk8mEh3n7XUa4w6hlhhyphenhyphenKyhrJu7kS1UYXfhC-Qi66mf7-pXNSYMUevlCzhW7uINpLUuC9BTSSYrdoo_FQk0k8YFC9_z-E6DUgXxjoEhIgNs03r4J7RIJQBX7QkXdoIn9o/s1600/IMG_8987.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7y8pZQM9rsHxk8mEh3n7XUa4w6hlhhyphenhyphenKyhrJu7kS1UYXfhC-Qi66mf7-pXNSYMUevlCzhW7uINpLUuC9BTSSYrdoo_FQk0k8YFC9_z-E6DUgXxjoEhIgNs03r4J7RIJQBX7QkXdoIn9o/s400/IMG_8987.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKvVJKczGI1Ve8GSMbh1008U6uwM6K_fgxWnWRtPEcZC6UsKcAtGI9iMGpPweQ3QXL6q0eQh76ckNtFuPDHhjCK3Y9OqE3BMjLAjhIqEi6J_sro8HewYoTStRtlc4xMiI8T5RJIhObiFc/s1600/IMG_8988_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKvVJKczGI1Ve8GSMbh1008U6uwM6K_fgxWnWRtPEcZC6UsKcAtGI9iMGpPweQ3QXL6q0eQh76ckNtFuPDHhjCK3Y9OqE3BMjLAjhIqEi6J_sro8HewYoTStRtlc4xMiI8T5RJIhObiFc/s400/IMG_8988_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsu1Aw4UegAh7SJ0yo3w9SocTq1IpOtIOOkD3NLTYkHkYvK5yIXh006sb3MKHRaGdwi8sFqynQ21ZMGbaVTTvYjmL4Xya8vKjzYDyi7J8FdGgMmKnVgInOcAiYmLxvEG2wtU6atYQn5M/s1600/IMG_8979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsu1Aw4UegAh7SJ0yo3w9SocTq1IpOtIOOkD3NLTYkHkYvK5yIXh006sb3MKHRaGdwi8sFqynQ21ZMGbaVTTvYjmL4Xya8vKjzYDyi7J8FdGgMmKnVgInOcAiYmLxvEG2wtU6atYQn5M/s400/IMG_8979.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flipped!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now, you'd have to do a hidden seam to close up the gap and complete the body of the pouch. However, being the forgetful person I am, I did not manage to capture photos of that process. Feel free to google for tutorials on sewing a hidden seam, OR, you could just watch this one here:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/WbE5hXt27uU/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WbE5hXt27uU?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To put the finishing touches on the pouch, prepare 2 snap fasteners and sew them onto the body of the pouch. DO take note of the positions of the male and female fasteners.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP5iUdPUI3npS58_pS0KVuJHN1FX8-_dJBeBb16i9KTbr80Cy1AA0Kwv9ieYE6VINNwtsXhaLgB25BJSTX9AsQWYuTB-9GiriVgH7Hzug58tfAHW8VBknomaPgLEig3fMOWYiosrBx5Vs/s1600/IMG_8986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP5iUdPUI3npS58_pS0KVuJHN1FX8-_dJBeBb16i9KTbr80Cy1AA0Kwv9ieYE6VINNwtsXhaLgB25BJSTX9AsQWYuTB-9GiriVgH7Hzug58tfAHW8VBknomaPgLEig3fMOWYiosrBx5Vs/s400/IMG_8986.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqTxN-DVDGO-xGIdAYdQYStlFPHkFW6q5629i2TV-hajZVtPzQ6qZcgrJHkGaDLbDETZ1l5H7DG9Esk3jSoqOpV5iaAiyJrDJE6VXb8jDpWytl4FbqA93f7ZAd67SkG93TUb0JcyoPJ0c/s1600/IMG_8980.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqTxN-DVDGO-xGIdAYdQYStlFPHkFW6q5629i2TV-hajZVtPzQ6qZcgrJHkGaDLbDETZ1l5H7DG9Esk3jSoqOpV5iaAiyJrDJE6VXb8jDpWytl4FbqA93f7ZAd67SkG93TUb0JcyoPJ0c/s400/IMG_8980.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
And then you are done! Sit back and admire your work of art!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkehWS4BMwbTDcqCnW2XdQ9pR5LykvZbMcrCqPocMluKchdLC4iacDEO7yCdBhR-nC8yJcbFYYl2lwGlVW46oUUg-2GBMuX-6ntmuxvE5kD55IXcdriiMQRAxMm3KSNLcf2z_Wl5yvhH0/s1600/IMG_8981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkehWS4BMwbTDcqCnW2XdQ9pR5LykvZbMcrCqPocMluKchdLC4iacDEO7yCdBhR-nC8yJcbFYYl2lwGlVW46oUUg-2GBMuX-6ntmuxvE5kD55IXcdriiMQRAxMm3KSNLcf2z_Wl5yvhH0/s400/IMG_8981.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjAXZGGKMiAof2Y6tEAvAqmkg0ISXofrtHoHA9F6MFof7aoIDNPrFecAw9txSt_jYoSzPB44Bzj4rrCnGc5jNAU3kDlJWwNZD8CLr-cAtZf-OLWzVtZS64tuk9bE4HXR9ONUfOnnnjIj4/s1600/IMG_8983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjAXZGGKMiAof2Y6tEAvAqmkg0ISXofrtHoHA9F6MFof7aoIDNPrFecAw9txSt_jYoSzPB44Bzj4rrCnGc5jNAU3kDlJWwNZD8CLr-cAtZf-OLWzVtZS64tuk9bE4HXR9ONUfOnnnjIj4/s400/IMG_8983.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy1tKnW9yN4WHznQwyLskFuaw1Nm6BIt59TVIEB0JND9mqHRU2ocdqqIP5oW6EjgYox_Vg5YQ9T1JgU60GmrfFzOW36y97eL8wMbiYZvmsnYDQdLkCNLF8XrdFf7A9M1VAXqaI-2F0IZA/s1600/IMG_8984.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy1tKnW9yN4WHznQwyLskFuaw1Nm6BIt59TVIEB0JND9mqHRU2ocdqqIP5oW6EjgYox_Vg5YQ9T1JgU60GmrfFzOW36y97eL8wMbiYZvmsnYDQdLkCNLF8XrdFf7A9M1VAXqaI-2F0IZA/s400/IMG_8984.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/2zdg8bin2uz26yv/Minimalist%20Triangle%20Coin%20Pouch.jpg?dl=0"><span id="goog_1418110115"></span>Click here to download your FREE Pattern.</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hope you guys loved this pouch as much as I do. I gave it to the boyfriend the other day and he loved how simple and unique it looked. I am hoping he would put it to good use, or else my efforts would have gone to waste.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For those who would be trying out this tutorial, do let me know how it went! I want to see all your creative creations :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">meixii</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You might also like:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://thiscache.blogspot.com/2012/06/diy-envelope-laptop-bag.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMVm9BJaysaz5VTyeRC-NtDbFrDyVTn7nj8S_ucE9HSJKFTNV5XpoI8pwGVGJ8pycDZ1Ndw7nubkAlohK5cUKQlUCh8gnSXQC3vDsdWKlzPGhVeJL6nrtAEb0721gwMLzNrnuWM1EuSY/s400/IMG_7058.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://thiscache.blogspot.com/2012/06/diy-envelope-laptop-bag.html" target="_blank">DIY Envelope Laptop Bag</a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_1418110116"></span></div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-11281145867422545922017-05-29T12:00:00.000+08:002017-05-29T15:55:40.603+08:005 Things to Expect When Getting a New Pet<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/18911053/?claim=snx8g9dpex7">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>
<script async defer data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-tall="true" data-pin-save="true" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSrQML2wIIQJ5XXFMwRDYNHt-5RePuVEHZ-CcyZeeeGcOHD1KmSBY2fD8Mjkfyo8mzIVV0hJfZwNLjpfZ8jgTOR10j4CjJNiiuNcrMWddEi5rFev72-V5i_tYp1WLB9hLdIQi5lxcf4KM/s1600/adrian-233455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSrQML2wIIQJ5XXFMwRDYNHt-5RePuVEHZ-CcyZeeeGcOHD1KmSBY2fD8Mjkfyo8mzIVV0hJfZwNLjpfZ8jgTOR10j4CjJNiiuNcrMWddEi5rFev72-V5i_tYp1WLB9hLdIQi5lxcf4KM/s640/adrian-233455.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Whether you are a long term dog lover, or have been hiding your inner cat lady for what seems like an eternity, congratulations on finally deciding to add a furry friend to your home.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
Adding new pet to your family is honestly a big deal; and I know it myself (speaking from experience here!). After all, pets are companions that require a lot of care, love and attention. So before you get yourself that puppy/kitten from the pet shop, read on to find out what's in it for you.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
1. You Will Focus on Training for a While</h3>
<div>
With your new pet in tow, you would possibly find yourself taking a lot of time - trying to get your furry friend to understand the rules of the house (No peeing, No pooping, No scratching, and so on). After all, animals and humans get along differently and it may be difficult to get your pet to follow your rules. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For this period, be sure to be patient while exercising a certain level of authority. That does NOT mean that it's okay to shout at your pets. What I meant was to be assertive and to "follow through" with your training and commands. Teach, Reinforce, Repeat.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVASjASw9x9hox8U0zNpPKh4PwuYhPUNt-D9CCqafK342hxBOqTCEOV8MafsV3yizSIKopyPMdKw17ZwHBz3EEHQQYAS-CXL-LckzyTegTdMg4AvJNBsI4Zz53Wv2oFhHJLZWcLhauB-8/s1600/pexels-photo-191099.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVASjASw9x9hox8U0zNpPKh4PwuYhPUNt-D9CCqafK342hxBOqTCEOV8MafsV3yizSIKopyPMdKw17ZwHBz3EEHQQYAS-CXL-LckzyTegTdMg4AvJNBsI4Zz53Wv2oFhHJLZWcLhauB-8/s320/pexels-photo-191099.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2. Cleaning Up, Washing, and Feeding</h3>
<div>
From the moment your adorable furry friend enters the house, you'll find that there's a lot more to do within a short period of time. If your pet haven't been house or potty trained, you might find yourself cleaning after it relatively often,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My advise would be for you to stock up on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000G136RM?ie=UTF8&tag=thiscache-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B000G136RM" target="_blank">potty pads</a>, or pick up a litter box and a big bag of litter. With all the essentials on hand, you’ll be able to enjoy those first moments together instead of worrying about everything you need to buy.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There are many obvious advantages for using <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000G136RM?ie=UTF8&tag=thiscache-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B000G136RM" target="_blank">potty pads</a>:</div>
<div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Soft and comfortable for your pet</li>
<li>Cleanup is easy</li>
<li>They’re convenient for potty training</li>
<li>Suitable for dogs who can’t go outside for health reasons</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrmaLTlvx0LdGGEjvoyB5ZMLqsdiiWvrMgotOVnd8r5l8UHDnoMi4P0M_FR5fceHeyhOkuuoY1tKyR0WhEA-VDTPZEY_ZwvKqJRJCwQUh-UnZAOzIzeCaZZDCLYk22nOA7C4dJSHz8hII/s1600/pexels-photo-171297.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrmaLTlvx0LdGGEjvoyB5ZMLqsdiiWvrMgotOVnd8r5l8UHDnoMi4P0M_FR5fceHeyhOkuuoY1tKyR0WhEA-VDTPZEY_ZwvKqJRJCwQUh-UnZAOzIzeCaZZDCLYk22nOA7C4dJSHz8hII/s320/pexels-photo-171297.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div>
<h3>
3. Your Pet May Take a While to Settle in</h3>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaQL8yKwTskfBTZ6qrdJPznkj5Qn-V0kHmuBn_VjiCYhQlT7HGEero3tkPebmfpDHUOdx3eFltXvFxHXiftoLhgNOYLv2SSAPd2FwBVIYHbdkOvKnI3vhYv7rZj3iDFIbLmXncesVeiCA/s1600/darius-anton-180693.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaQL8yKwTskfBTZ6qrdJPznkj5Qn-V0kHmuBn_VjiCYhQlT7HGEero3tkPebmfpDHUOdx3eFltXvFxHXiftoLhgNOYLv2SSAPd2FwBVIYHbdkOvKnI3vhYv7rZj3iDFIbLmXncesVeiCA/s320/darius-anton-180693.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Be patient.</b> It may take some time for your new furry friend to get used to the new environment that he has been placed in. It's totally normal if your pet takes time to warm up to you. It’s super important to be patient and gentle; you might also want to set a routine that you both can follow and depend on. That means walking and feeding your pet at fixed times, so he can become comfortable with your schedule!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
4. You May Have to Pet Proof Your Home</h3>
<div>
You may have to consider pet proofing your home, or even using a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000JJFNJK?ie=UTF8&tag=thiscache-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B000JJFNJK" target="_blank">pet gate</a> to keep your pet safe. Things that could be toxic for your pets - such as chocolates, chemicals, little toys, or alcohol - be sure to keep them out of reach. Treat your new furry friend as your child, and you will be sure on what to do! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxYL4E53Kq9pawdd7Dt6s8S1cEjLdYzVIoBuTMgybcDSjVuJSQNiQp6Jg9kDMGxV2X78py2jHl99ka07YPg8wH-KmDEUTjQ1Qe7yygsZczCWHrpTKcdLeunZ6RV802aG3GCEq7fC_h3RQ/s1600/nick-turner-2570.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxYL4E53Kq9pawdd7Dt6s8S1cEjLdYzVIoBuTMgybcDSjVuJSQNiQp6Jg9kDMGxV2X78py2jHl99ka07YPg8wH-KmDEUTjQ1Qe7yygsZczCWHrpTKcdLeunZ6RV802aG3GCEq7fC_h3RQ/s320/nick-turner-2570.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
5. Ultimately, You'll Have a Lot of Fun</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYD0JnCJWmUMGKST1jP2Iediz13Xu9AB97MLNNLb8uNP7pJZjXN53IwUyGBNItCrFFMuUTgf1C2UqeFPxUXVWEyh3OTT8mmNkbeJuEYZ9rfZHmC-e2F7lXxWWaMVV70KO42cv-GQLbv1I/s1600/pexels-photo-282547.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYD0JnCJWmUMGKST1jP2Iediz13Xu9AB97MLNNLb8uNP7pJZjXN53IwUyGBNItCrFFMuUTgf1C2UqeFPxUXVWEyh3OTT8mmNkbeJuEYZ9rfZHmC-e2F7lXxWWaMVV70KO42cv-GQLbv1I/s320/pexels-photo-282547.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
By spending time with your pet (which is actually the most important thing), you are fostering and building a stronger bond. Trust between the owner and the pet is the most important in any human-pet relationship and it will ensure happy and healthy interactions between the both of you.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Have you recently invited a new furry friend home? Be sure to share it with me in the comments below!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">xoxo,</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">meixii</span></div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-22084420784874029802017-05-25T12:00:00.000+08:002017-06-21T17:03:06.274+08:003 Day Itinerary in Prague, Czech Republic on a Budget<script async="" data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-save="true" data-pin-tall="true" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So just the other day, I was reminiscing about the 6 months I spent in Europe, specifically Munich, Germany. During my time there, I had traveled experienced and seen more of the world than I ever had in the past 22 years of my life.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdWPhx6EjK3GUHzsYRP45sqk7JsrrGRJNzIOu83LvPrDL8ZpyaTeCi2aF9hUONp2nM9SLR-h5Cc-ZSWEPItxkOBdEBcHMzOm8YlAC8s1o4XE6-nVnQAr3U_37IMDIy2WWXJ_jmTHKvhdQ/s1600/IMG_9189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdWPhx6EjK3GUHzsYRP45sqk7JsrrGRJNzIOu83LvPrDL8ZpyaTeCi2aF9hUONp2nM9SLR-h5Cc-ZSWEPItxkOBdEBcHMzOm8YlAC8s1o4XE6-nVnQAr3U_37IMDIy2WWXJ_jmTHKvhdQ/s400/IMG_9189.jpg" width="352" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
During that 6 months, my other half and I had an opportunity to travel to Prague, Czech Republic for a short 3 day trip, while a close friend of mine decided to drop by to Venice, Italy (you can read all about her <a href="https://thiscache.blogspot.com/2017/05/how-i-travelled-to-venice-on-budget.html" target="_blank">Venice trip</a> here). This is my first time to Czech Republic but I know that I’ll be back again, even if it’s just for the cheap food and delicious Trdelník. If you were to just visit the city of Prague, I believe a 3 day trip would be sufficient for you to see all that you need to. Short trips also meant lower expenses!<br />
<br />
Considering that I made this trip to Prague from Munich, Germany, this meant that I could travel via land transport (bus/train). Here are the options available for a <u>two-way</u> trip for <u>one person</u> to Prague.<br />
<i>Do note that the pricing of the transportation varies, depending on the date and time you chose to leave the country. </i><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.bahn.com/en/view/index.shtml" target="_blank">DB Bahn Bus </a> €48</li>
<li><a href="https://www.bahn.com/en/view/index.shtml" target="_blank">DB Bahn Train</a> €73.90 </li>
<li><a href="https://www.helloe.com/en/" target="_blank">Hellö Bus</a> €86</li>
<li><a href="https://www.flixbus.com/" target="_blank">Flix Bus</a> €52.90</li>
</ul>
<br />
<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
Just from a glance, it is obvious that the cheapest ride would be via DB Bahn bus and so, I chose to take that up.<br />
<br />
Do note that the local currency in Prague is the Czech Koruna, so you'll have to make a trip to the bank or money changer before your travels.<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Day 1: Munich - Prague</h3>
<div>
I had chosen to purchase the tickets for the cheapest time slot, and so we boarded the bus early at 10.15 am from Hackerbrücke station. This is the main bus station in Munich, and so it made a lot of sense. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV8VJaSlnZWYupAn0HaKLJamqG-xAs8eVUCMnW7IlGOQP9WaE7HRG1pXWzUhlT8-phWVPCCBb46PgZMO9fEdnoaOuheXILGM3sum5HbZTOILI3xzZt4eHWmSmEKb6mPmnRbKJ1Z7DjOKw/s1600/zob_mc3bcnchen_2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV8VJaSlnZWYupAn0HaKLJamqG-xAs8eVUCMnW7IlGOQP9WaE7HRG1pXWzUhlT8-phWVPCCBb46PgZMO9fEdnoaOuheXILGM3sum5HbZTOILI3xzZt4eHWmSmEKb6mPmnRbKJ1Z7DjOKw/s400/zob_mc3bcnchen_2012.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Munich Main Bus Station; Hackerbrücke Station</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZqfn6i5-CjHt3C54IXtYT3NSwwmTssAFHGZAD14YikL1gl8LB3Er2y9nv0pXot2agWikdH5oy5encxtiEDBUmbbOJ5ES3WhaVWgNyOjox_hV8SwXCabkx8Ry7XVh4YbE2lZ8EXDzOF6Q/s1600/IMG_8326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZqfn6i5-CjHt3C54IXtYT3NSwwmTssAFHGZAD14YikL1gl8LB3Er2y9nv0pXot2agWikdH5oy5encxtiEDBUmbbOJ5ES3WhaVWgNyOjox_hV8SwXCabkx8Ry7XVh4YbE2lZ8EXDzOF6Q/s400/IMG_8326.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXAGblzsGh1mTXyfsYRTuURYKrg3fC8TL_hoi2C2A4ehhm8hUi1DKNkcmjKxJ9jWVtah99j7EwyxnivPDvooaph9n8lpbHgRuvOCLOfwtook86iRRjUw3Oh3F98LbHHcER9XfK-qWz50M/s1600/IMG_8335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXAGblzsGh1mTXyfsYRTuURYKrg3fC8TL_hoi2C2A4ehhm8hUi1DKNkcmjKxJ9jWVtah99j7EwyxnivPDvooaph9n8lpbHgRuvOCLOfwtook86iRRjUw3Oh3F98LbHHcER9XfK-qWz50M/s400/IMG_8335.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was such a pleasant journey, along with FREE WiFi, and onboard entertainment (you'll need your own smart phone for this). I was initially skeptical about taking the bus, due to my motion sickness tendencies. So glad that none of that puking or mess occurred during the 4.5 hour ride. I'd say that it was a relatively short ride if you consider that the train option takes you about 5 - 5.5 hours after a single transfer. </div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAlaCDbGOFwe4QhvbId-kBg1IgioIUlxeZgI3Y3Xj7az9kd6VsYrsh2B-u8x8bLD2XJ-6RkYR7qWbY1t7Z9qG2v5_WQlhXAnohqZclPllIyPnYLwFjT__oZ0tiExPb63u4ZfgsIFqCBCQ/s1600/IMG_8343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAlaCDbGOFwe4QhvbId-kBg1IgioIUlxeZgI3Y3Xj7az9kd6VsYrsh2B-u8x8bLD2XJ-6RkYR7qWbY1t7Z9qG2v5_WQlhXAnohqZclPllIyPnYLwFjT__oZ0tiExPb63u4ZfgsIFqCBCQ/s400/IMG_8343.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>We are in Prague!!</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="236" src="https://img.e15.cz/img/11/normal690/2888563-img-praha-praha-hlavni-nadrazi-hlavni-nadrazi-zeleznice-zeleznicni-stanice-chodba-hala-vestibul.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Prague Main Railway Station, Praha Hlavní Nádraží</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We then decided to have our lunch (and our very first meal in Prague) at the train station in order to fill our hungry tummies, we took our chances and entered <i><b>Restaurace Potrefená Husa</b></i> for a meal.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhErYWIrkuVJ1_q0P57IkwnM02bblM5mSrwNdtEP0-k-K_szKq_khbJlLQbSgoYlkri8vq7CyzS_8uqB4i20QN3wERCwqSm9A8VPQ1Vzi_vjKWZlPvBWZ0pI8CofoRZWksyfUOQZOpazeE/s1600/IMG_8346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhErYWIrkuVJ1_q0P57IkwnM02bblM5mSrwNdtEP0-k-K_szKq_khbJlLQbSgoYlkri8vq7CyzS_8uqB4i20QN3wERCwqSm9A8VPQ1Vzi_vjKWZlPvBWZ0pI8CofoRZWksyfUOQZOpazeE/s400/IMG_8346.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><i>Pork Neck (Kč 236</i><i style="font-size: 12.8px;">)</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggGS_KQFvUub4Wj3lliyH6CYzdjD96C_gxTaF0tmDq8l7xBsUFZ11WW-5MFMDG2D9GnNbMVGSAouOTnuFvTR1IGBn5mUiXcAHxTmE5DL1yNYYbSMRRd0k_bjJz7QCZgG2AsGBwTq1QgII/s1600/IMG_8347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggGS_KQFvUub4Wj3lliyH6CYzdjD96C_gxTaF0tmDq8l7xBsUFZ11WW-5MFMDG2D9GnNbMVGSAouOTnuFvTR1IGBn5mUiXcAHxTmE5DL1yNYYbSMRRd0k_bjJz7QCZgG2AsGBwTq1QgII/s400/IMG_8347.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Cabbage Soup (Kč </i><i>75)</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
Having stayed in Munich for almost 6 months, you'd know if you are out of the country just simply from looking at the architecture and taking in the environment. We had decided to explore the place a little by taking a short 5 minutes walk to the next station - Museum Station. </div>
<div>
Hey walking is free, no shame there! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
From there, we bought train tickets to our apartment. The tickets costs <b>Kč 24</b> for 30 mins of travel and <b>Kč 32</b> for 90 mins of travel. There are also day tickets and other options available, and you can learn all about the pricing <a href="https://www.pragueexperience.com/travel/public-transport.asp" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg52JqNCy5fOjQ1zgLxlwBMXMyh-NjaCG8bkcfT4wfjwAEu7s1-TaFu2Zp6kgPWzS2QQAaBTZHH9LvoEVZ-W15UfxsDdoLLWVYkRZtUh2QZhRrKGTAWOhi5CvGBqJOpuZoOmAjiTK_DhRY/s1600/IMG_8911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg52JqNCy5fOjQ1zgLxlwBMXMyh-NjaCG8bkcfT4wfjwAEu7s1-TaFu2Zp6kgPWzS2QQAaBTZHH9LvoEVZ-W15UfxsDdoLLWVYkRZtUh2QZhRrKGTAWOhi5CvGBqJOpuZoOmAjiTK_DhRY/s400/IMG_8911.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9zfWWx271zr1xb8sqqf1JTp13qc3LYvOT-U_K2LFipxyvYAtABBW3pKMDD22kL0UjKp6M7q5VDbhWl1LXd3e32zwriUAuAD8-T_3YduX5rvpDXy3QqNulWJ762dQvMiWdtE5X-P16zWw/s1600/IMG_8912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9zfWWx271zr1xb8sqqf1JTp13qc3LYvOT-U_K2LFipxyvYAtABBW3pKMDD22kL0UjKp6M7q5VDbhWl1LXd3e32zwriUAuAD8-T_3YduX5rvpDXy3QqNulWJ762dQvMiWdtE5X-P16zWw/s400/IMG_8912.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
We spent the rest of the evening walking in the area around our apartment, trying to take in all the sights and smells.<br />
<br />
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilO4dmzEJmxVaucHs5eEO-L3E_PxEIU76_qYhw439BjXR6M8boBQaHaxJWPFX_uqTI4prBNPoXdNAUZC7tSkT44PjLXYpK1Ug09Ckt9FHMYgQHxYflExRu7uNii74JCCcld7-P-OTwsyA/s1600/IMG_8918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilO4dmzEJmxVaucHs5eEO-L3E_PxEIU76_qYhw439BjXR6M8boBQaHaxJWPFX_uqTI4prBNPoXdNAUZC7tSkT44PjLXYpK1Ug09Ckt9FHMYgQHxYflExRu7uNii74JCCcld7-P-OTwsyA/s400/IMG_8918.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Loving the warm colours of sunset.</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
Being the lazy people we are, we decided to have dinner somewhere near by the apartment. We chanced upon <i><b>Restaurace U Malvaze</b></i>, a<i> </i>great restaurant with traditional food and a very nice cosy ambiance. Although it was found in the tourist area, the quality of the food was relatively high.<br />
There is also free WiFi provided; what more can I ask for?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Related image" height="266" src="https://s-ec.bstatic.com/images/hotel/max1024x768/379/37913490.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">The interior.</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><img alt="Photo of U Malvaze restaurant - Praha, Czech Republic. Grilled pork medallions in mustard sauce with mushrooms" height="298" src="https://s3-media2.fl.yelpcdn.com/bphoto/VWN3B2p5rALTM98vP3_wzQ/o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Grilled pork in mustard sauce with mushrooms.</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Image result for U Malvaze restaurant goulash" height="400" src="https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/0f/0b/8b/b2/yummy-goulash-dish.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="300" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Beef goulash and bread dumplings.</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<br />
I can't remember the price of each of the individual dishes, but the bill came up to <b>Kč 660</b> (approx. € 25). It was a great dinner and we went back to the apartment with a happy tummy and a thinner wallet.<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Day 2: Castle & Old Town</h3>
<div>
The next day, we woke up bright and early and it was such a fantastic feeling to be waking up to great weather and a beautiful looking apartment.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnHA_t5yoL5hRW4DEMpd-LnVmyo7diuUJTbOrPmqQr_gY8R2yLbdA7lRXhDtsfsBLHiTg30DiREyqs4d-IHOct1uNWEnqPYAsgRVlPO1U4Nz-vshg2CKvwvPklwqrINOZi65msMgv4fBk/s1600/IMG_8927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnHA_t5yoL5hRW4DEMpd-LnVmyo7diuUJTbOrPmqQr_gY8R2yLbdA7lRXhDtsfsBLHiTg30DiREyqs4d-IHOct1uNWEnqPYAsgRVlPO1U4Nz-vshg2CKvwvPklwqrINOZi65msMgv4fBk/s400/IMG_8927.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-8RGKtLQhyphenhyphen5-dFi6otpJ_phe-oT5Wo96jsJmjvfutUyYACeZdeS_k4ijxOuizwKVG0ROLnpjYNCtHgHIyUbsg_uJp0li_DWimGzZ6JlWLROC-sfvlLpA7RmWL8NpbvtPh-AlDPfqvOAA/s1600/IMG_8934.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-8RGKtLQhyphenhyphen5-dFi6otpJ_phe-oT5Wo96jsJmjvfutUyYACeZdeS_k4ijxOuizwKVG0ROLnpjYNCtHgHIyUbsg_uJp0li_DWimGzZ6JlWLROC-sfvlLpA7RmWL8NpbvtPh-AlDPfqvOAA/s400/IMG_8934.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We decided to head out early, over to the old district of <b><i>Malá Strana</i></b> to look for some food for breakfast. To be there, you'd have to cross the <i style="font-weight: bold;">Karlův most</i>,<i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i>commonly known as Charles Bridge in english. This is an iconic 14th century stone bridge linking Prague's Old & New Towns, with street artists & entertainers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was really surprising, or even disappointing for us to find that the weather can just change in a split second. One moment, the sun was out in full blast and the next, grey clouds seem to cover the area. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For those who are just like me and can't travel without doing sufficient research and proper planning, be sure to get your Prague map <a href="https://www.pragueexperience.com/maps/map.asp" target="_blank">here</a>. It's the pictorial answer to all your mapping questions.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr32frwVpbI4ifpsrg7h7biBpJ9xFlPsD-8tcpeTcxguWe_6ElomccQMpgadU0UtTEEMnk9hsyWaFlDBRu7kf03DrUPL4bV9d0LdK7hYT0d2iWbXYVM6j3aLnRYRJ2luAz3DsOVFei3Jg/s1600/IMG_8941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr32frwVpbI4ifpsrg7h7biBpJ9xFlPsD-8tcpeTcxguWe_6ElomccQMpgadU0UtTEEMnk9hsyWaFlDBRu7kf03DrUPL4bV9d0LdK7hYT0d2iWbXYVM6j3aLnRYRJ2luAz3DsOVFei3Jg/s400/IMG_8941.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>One end of Charles Bridge.</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVnorcS5r9CoULiJ0EhjL4Oq4aJh4PwSeUuPkuDQi1-4-psE2d32vAbpZafvvjajLu3adrEzHj0HvghyphenhyphenTCaMn3tKMtT05p8mO7D7o1uGcQiZacdloZxBt_n4F5KiEHrGveFEu5xPOeQWE/s1600/IMG_8952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVnorcS5r9CoULiJ0EhjL4Oq4aJh4PwSeUuPkuDQi1-4-psE2d32vAbpZafvvjajLu3adrEzHj0HvghyphenhyphenTCaMn3tKMtT05p8mO7D7o1uGcQiZacdloZxBt_n4F5KiEHrGveFEu5xPOeQWE/s400/IMG_8952.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Grey sad clouds, you'd never think that the sun was out just 10 mins ago.</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Upon crossing <b><i>Charles Bridge</i></b>, we were so amused to find that the depressing grey clouds were gone, and the sun was out again. We also found ourselves a tiny bakery, <i><b>Bakery Krusta</b></i>.<br />
It was a quaint little shop that sold Trdelník as well. However we decided to hold off eating the Trdelník for a later snack, since its not such a great idea to have so much sugar in the system early in the morning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBhruQJAygq1kJdGV_X_3G9ZF6VqBgGZZD7dHhXSXRVuvEiXw-JgqDTneaqMubkIR5wQ2n5VZbmTmdyAqxuejhugksU503o5ykzxuMW6qFnUxrpXHCm90pyzJg2brsWRKaaXDhZCPfcT4/s1600/IMG_8968.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBhruQJAygq1kJdGV_X_3G9ZF6VqBgGZZD7dHhXSXRVuvEiXw-JgqDTneaqMubkIR5wQ2n5VZbmTmdyAqxuejhugksU503o5ykzxuMW6qFnUxrpXHCm90pyzJg2brsWRKaaXDhZCPfcT4/s400/IMG_8968.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZ3y7uje9qnyuA_trisYPidU9UsolB3ix86RBtXFFTRnJV67ApQKnz-67xko1d2cjOW3jLZlT_qURF9KUear4GZuHhKIzi2GlJEn7WUzanPOdC9ZKGJS2edxxeuwnV_nNJVz8NqwMO7E/s1600/IMG_8971.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtZ3y7uje9qnyuA_trisYPidU9UsolB3ix86RBtXFFTRnJV67ApQKnz-67xko1d2cjOW3jLZlT_qURF9KUear4GZuHhKIzi2GlJEn7WUzanPOdC9ZKGJS2edxxeuwnV_nNJVz8NqwMO7E/s400/IMG_8971.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFtr_6zsWJnr_-X4sPwV5gcsQ1F-nfqghMNqE8T4IMZIxnw-xbnrGXKUtsIl5OWvev2sDdo_xE3_4gruTl5zlDzjK1wAevAjDV2luFxdBU7PEFblUg2CZx2vVm4UOLmMreGhq5axazBl0/s1600/IMG_8973.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFtr_6zsWJnr_-X4sPwV5gcsQ1F-nfqghMNqE8T4IMZIxnw-xbnrGXKUtsIl5OWvev2sDdo_xE3_4gruTl5zlDzjK1wAevAjDV2luFxdBU7PEFblUg2CZx2vVm4UOLmMreGhq5axazBl0/s400/IMG_8973.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">My bread stick (Kč 22).</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
For the whole morning, we explored the streets of the old town while making our way up towards the <b style="font-style: italic;">Pražský Hrad</b>, also known as the Prague Castle.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_zw7qkPINJN9mELtLcHnrgF4XSYkchDyRvgql_PlkVUEPiMAtZtDc9ra2ZCIPdcP5ScUXBzvRPth0xYfgYLzzZeJDj3k9i8hF05mPUEeeY8R4PJjYOj3JZtASTcxPhvkGkcsfSG1nlUk/s1600/IMG_8982.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_zw7qkPINJN9mELtLcHnrgF4XSYkchDyRvgql_PlkVUEPiMAtZtDc9ra2ZCIPdcP5ScUXBzvRPth0xYfgYLzzZeJDj3k9i8hF05mPUEeeY8R4PJjYOj3JZtASTcxPhvkGkcsfSG1nlUk/s400/IMG_8982.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
In between our walk up the hill, we chanced upon the <i style="font-weight: bold;">Gingerbread Museum</i> - a cute little shop selling lots and lots of gingerbread cookies, in all shapes and sizes.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Image result for prague gingerbread museum" height="265" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/ce/80/24/ce8024b138f115cde5eb627505a77295.jpg" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Qf1qRgWDCA6VfNJ5eGscrVhJvBe0shPQgCpIhc_vL7DosHd6XyFnr633PCYUuP6EZhC8XkUKlKS4gWLkHD6c3RmzxPA4KQXiZORzVQTT8sUuvAxFL2E8Cpkkbbpr2W1TxqSg52omuvM/s1600/IMG_9010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Qf1qRgWDCA6VfNJ5eGscrVhJvBe0shPQgCpIhc_vL7DosHd6XyFnr633PCYUuP6EZhC8XkUKlKS4gWLkHD6c3RmzxPA4KQXiZORzVQTT8sUuvAxFL2E8Cpkkbbpr2W1TxqSg52omuvM/s400/IMG_9010.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>We found this thing really cute, and we purchased one.</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmv8ZOx7M2Plohttvl_Xd3ZlvNvNZ9ic27wJeHJeiDxrUq_uFSmGPZPMT58TuqM4T-VsfsKC2DY8yvaxLFdc_Vtv6MEKZLj5fTlX2UZD6JqQ7dTf5r71Ax6yWf90EEYKSjP9BG_TcbLsE/s1600/IMG_9012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmv8ZOx7M2Plohttvl_Xd3ZlvNvNZ9ic27wJeHJeiDxrUq_uFSmGPZPMT58TuqM4T-VsfsKC2DY8yvaxLFdc_Vtv6MEKZLj5fTlX2UZD6JqQ7dTf5r71Ax6yWf90EEYKSjP9BG_TcbLsE/s400/IMG_9012.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
After walking for what seemed like forever, we finally reached the top, and we were greeted by the "Starbucks with the best view in the world". You'd see what they mean, when you look at the photos that I have taken below. I was shamelessly standing in their premises (along with many other tourists), taking photos of the view they offered.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Image result for prague castle starbucks" height="266" src="https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/09/77/49/50/starbucks.jpg" width="400" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDEex59D6B-mXDyQkm0PcV75HIgg1RKA2vjesSubFyzpoG6QJ0ZJyKzsl1H9m4KMjCtdKzhyCR_2GVAGO9q1ZmMRpSpbR7a0kRX5xeqGu-bf3ika_X2nkllGY46hzKftX91Z5H7YhHB1o/s1600/IMG_9030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDEex59D6B-mXDyQkm0PcV75HIgg1RKA2vjesSubFyzpoG6QJ0ZJyKzsl1H9m4KMjCtdKzhyCR_2GVAGO9q1ZmMRpSpbR7a0kRX5xeqGu-bf3ika_X2nkllGY46hzKftX91Z5H7YhHB1o/s400/IMG_9030.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you'd look behind this view - on land - that would be where the <b style="font-style: italic;">Pražský Hrad </b>would be. Entry was FREE, you just have to go through a simple security bag check to enter.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNhmyxrLNcqp4IyDmUjNr_u0kohM03RdWfjQ0wFFlpq9VLDM2XaOndKfMOcT9ui8QN4EEQhw8BtvKM3of1ABzPOtUiZa_5rTDSup-YprUK77n4R7DNUkfWwnswFpdZlwAw6S58ZZ-KQAw/s1600/IMG_9042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNhmyxrLNcqp4IyDmUjNr_u0kohM03RdWfjQ0wFFlpq9VLDM2XaOndKfMOcT9ui8QN4EEQhw8BtvKM3of1ABzPOtUiZa_5rTDSup-YprUK77n4R7DNUkfWwnswFpdZlwAw6S58ZZ-KQAw/s400/IMG_9042.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPsloR2Oc7vhL1JrNj68UUzOkwpIvtptHeVWrfOrleQDuRUzplr7cwfzkUHb_sBGDY2bzJyHHmWRhWn_bj2BWqtVc9yVLbiqmH2bTj1TM_uaa_JnNSz6yb9ZLUtB5n6y67raYT5pL0BNk/s1600/IMG_9047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPsloR2Oc7vhL1JrNj68UUzOkwpIvtptHeVWrfOrleQDuRUzplr7cwfzkUHb_sBGDY2bzJyHHmWRhWn_bj2BWqtVc9yVLbiqmH2bTj1TM_uaa_JnNSz6yb9ZLUtB5n6y67raYT5pL0BNk/s400/IMG_9047.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
To be honest, the castle wasn't exactly phenomenal looking and so I got a little bored and decided to move along deeper into the premises to visit the <i style="font-weight: bold;">Katedrála Sv. Víta </i>(St. Vitus Cathedral). The interior of the cathedral is so beautiful. The stained glass windows looked fantastic when the sunlight shone through. It looked truly magical.<br />
I could have stayed in that place for the whole afternoon if not for the mass of visitors.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRpvLkPotW0RoLNRnE7uCBZnWlsglGDHQpPJP2ZDqrVBLud9VSTh2R38S1E4pwSTBKqSnn3_Dn4hwQPD2bFKlBxv2juAM3EUKWjQF8jparse5azeq-IRdmrANLC_0G5souPDusB9WdwcI/s1600/IMG_9059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRpvLkPotW0RoLNRnE7uCBZnWlsglGDHQpPJP2ZDqrVBLud9VSTh2R38S1E4pwSTBKqSnn3_Dn4hwQPD2bFKlBxv2juAM3EUKWjQF8jparse5azeq-IRdmrANLC_0G5souPDusB9WdwcI/s400/IMG_9059.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjq3_7GPmk94LAkpNC72V_vii2sbX-2ojMvLo9ssOcG9CcKgJW0uffLCPgTQ8vE9S8_aua-1srSLwKzNg-kAmuY2OE3XpkNh-NmrU0PCEQGMFLBAuRxnYAF6Edp-4wfrSTxDPjoCFjw4Q/s1600/IMG_9062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjq3_7GPmk94LAkpNC72V_vii2sbX-2ojMvLo9ssOcG9CcKgJW0uffLCPgTQ8vE9S8_aua-1srSLwKzNg-kAmuY2OE3XpkNh-NmrU0PCEQGMFLBAuRxnYAF6Edp-4wfrSTxDPjoCFjw4Q/s400/IMG_9062.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSXFTzATXOUO5KU5_tIw_KMXVh-twA8f7xeIQluMsmL1PKnHL3n1WmMyz9VFp4pwON10NBN0qxiMn24i9d-Q0gSpTJBDzd11ScD84fUWuT5XnDek6CxeciVDtPvj4o4hjov962qZC0p8g/s1600/IMG_9065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSXFTzATXOUO5KU5_tIw_KMXVh-twA8f7xeIQluMsmL1PKnHL3n1WmMyz9VFp4pwON10NBN0qxiMn24i9d-Q0gSpTJBDzd11ScD84fUWuT5XnDek6CxeciVDtPvj4o4hjov962qZC0p8g/s400/IMG_9065.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Look at those colours!</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
The rest of the day was spent roaming the old town, having my first taste of Trdelník, and visiting the <i style="font-weight: bold;">Pražský orloj </i>(Prague Astronomical Clock).<br />
<br />
Although I was in awe and impressed by the oldest functioning medieval clock in the world, I didn't stay to watch the 12 apostles passing by the window. For those who are interested, this movement may be viewed <u>every hour</u>, above the astronomical dial.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOz9euqDVuqg_Qe6YdA1ZWYdE4lAvVHMGOk8EWCGKa_dN0ENQ8A35Zwb3TlU-c7FO-kiduE4vACcAEYNbPWkJttvnldfMF0lAnYe5AI9mpGzv8zbuDi8t3GUMfWN5i6DcKakCSO3oYqr4/s1600/IMG_9089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOz9euqDVuqg_Qe6YdA1ZWYdE4lAvVHMGOk8EWCGKa_dN0ENQ8A35Zwb3TlU-c7FO-kiduE4vACcAEYNbPWkJttvnldfMF0lAnYe5AI9mpGzv8zbuDi8t3GUMfWN5i6DcKakCSO3oYqr4/s400/IMG_9089.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqAuKztL_LulMx-4UH0Vdow_Z4IsbSyPDXBcCgDHdb8x7rA-KPzXS4V44l7oYwx3dyyi0bFdsF350C6yQ8XWHoEURui5VywyrE2w6kgVVs7zi1o86Ja3_Qjpg5_Nds9iTiIlL3n5XPnuI/s1600/IMG_9090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqAuKztL_LulMx-4UH0Vdow_Z4IsbSyPDXBcCgDHdb8x7rA-KPzXS4V44l7oYwx3dyyi0bFdsF350C6yQ8XWHoEURui5VywyrE2w6kgVVs7zi1o86Ja3_Qjpg5_Nds9iTiIlL3n5XPnuI/s400/IMG_9090.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7VbsEmSlMIyZaOv3FFmas3yKu8iqJfKLbZYEly926P6aLZllrWqgU0_xkwXODStm4ObvYOKOAY4t2oTp6k0w1UlUrh1dCohahB3mHyMTyRQlWJMK7eRSYwg1P8iBWh6F5CbX5TOrkJQo/s1600/IMG_9134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7VbsEmSlMIyZaOv3FFmas3yKu8iqJfKLbZYEly926P6aLZllrWqgU0_xkwXODStm4ObvYOKOAY4t2oTp6k0w1UlUrh1dCohahB3mHyMTyRQlWJMK7eRSYwg1P8iBWh6F5CbX5TOrkJQo/s400/IMG_9134.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Pražský orloj.</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtuk594PJnh2z2NnQYmXeS49J1Tfpa0vezA5HwTpE_OsuUnuVFBbXrbvlhtMMpiVF6Aix87OO2_ymWj6fIpl0deAVJxOWo5UFIO1_TVupR69AuyidzQKfJL9s0LOwvbyF8qCj0U7i92Mo/s1600/IMG_9136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtuk594PJnh2z2NnQYmXeS49J1Tfpa0vezA5HwTpE_OsuUnuVFBbXrbvlhtMMpiVF6Aix87OO2_ymWj6fIpl0deAVJxOWo5UFIO1_TVupR69AuyidzQKfJL9s0LOwvbyF8qCj0U7i92Mo/s400/IMG_9136.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That night when we returned to the apartment after dinner, we were so terribly lucky to be able witness fireworks being released in the night sky right from our balcony. We aren't too sure what was the occasion, but it was an amazing experience to be able to view such huge fireworks from the comforts of "home".</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKu07CZK9wGS3J5Ttrdg5y9Lyi9wTjJL0ySEqZe7upOznRZY4s8HXKRxs4N9-_-cZuFU2s__xeIIE7nFaQyyo8ROaj-p1R1K7TG338y8pWASc6_E8mGgOq1pI2BoWI-nxQHtjAjyyOhdM/s1600/IMG_9150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKu07CZK9wGS3J5Ttrdg5y9Lyi9wTjJL0ySEqZe7upOznRZY4s8HXKRxs4N9-_-cZuFU2s__xeIIE7nFaQyyo8ROaj-p1R1K7TG338y8pWASc6_E8mGgOq1pI2BoWI-nxQHtjAjyyOhdM/s400/IMG_9150.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Day 3: Old Town Square & River Tour - Munich</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBO86AyFpTS_xB3acTl4aMLrAt32fNQaCxvbn8DvgNa62GzcBel6jnCuVuNU34scRRvx1b7Itxzp9zyzzuoWpcRiPxlffzTVS1KbjTKR3LehVSHUV2YF7bnA7xZW5hOfU3vVwh1MvhxFo/s1600/IMG_9180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBO86AyFpTS_xB3acTl4aMLrAt32fNQaCxvbn8DvgNa62GzcBel6jnCuVuNU34scRRvx1b7Itxzp9zyzzuoWpcRiPxlffzTVS1KbjTKR3LehVSHUV2YF7bnA7xZW5hOfU3vVwh1MvhxFo/s400/IMG_9180.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The following morning - our last day here in Prague - we decided to drop by the<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <i style="font-weight: bold;">Havelské tržiště </i></span>street market. The market sold a variety of things, from doll puppets, to nail files, to plates and even fruits. I personally purchased a few handmade <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CIM5IEK?ie=UTF8&tag=thiscache-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B01CIM5IEK" target="_blank">glass nail files</a> for my friends and family. Apparently, glass files are much better for use as they seal the keratin layers together at the edge of the nail, hence preventing peeling and chipping!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The pricing of the glass files differ from seller to seller, and is also affected by the complexity of the designs on the file. I purchased 2 files decorated with Swarovski Elements at <b>Kč 200</b> each (approx. € 8), along with another 3 simpler looking files at <b>Kč 80 </b>each.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-style: italic; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYsQya8DGi_hL-tV-rX8FJhI-cW6M_4V0Pm6FYrlXOVp0AQtvoNgw5QuhkcF8HFRF6pPuDnMpVql3ZvpwG0zKhd6UZ-ntYD1LDFimKkVWA1uQYMyaUzM1aTfF2edKV8h4Ae4pfFaHFpGA/s1600/5667266.dc357b47.640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYsQya8DGi_hL-tV-rX8FJhI-cW6M_4V0Pm6FYrlXOVp0AQtvoNgw5QuhkcF8HFRF6pPuDnMpVql3ZvpwG0zKhd6UZ-ntYD1LDFimKkVWA1uQYMyaUzM1aTfF2edKV8h4Ae4pfFaHFpGA/s400/5667266.dc357b47.640.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-style: italic; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-style: italic; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Later, we moved towards the Old Town Square to have lunch, and to meet up with the tour guide for the river cruise. As a rule of thumb, you usually get to save about 10% discount off the final cost simply by booking your tours online in advance. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.prague-boats.cz/river-cruises" target="_blank">Prague Boats</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.praguesteamboats.com/vltava-river-cruises-in-prague" target="_blank">Paroplavba</a></li>
<li><a href="http://discover-prague.com/tours-trips-tickets/river-cruises-boat-trips/" target="_blank">Discover Prague</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.1pragueguide.com/prague-boat-trips" target="_blank">1 Prague Guide</a></li>
</ul>
<br />
I personally booked the 1 hour river cruise from <a href="http://www.praguesteamboats.com/vltava-river-cruises-in-prague" target="_blank">Paroplavba</a> which was priced at Kč 250. After the 10% discount, the cost was reduced to <b>Kč 225 </b>(approx € 9).<br />
<br />
(Disclaimer: I am NOT getting paid in any way if you do book something on Paroplavba. I'm purely sharing some tips with you.)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicLx5TQ1WOjXZMmWj1T5YiY4ilqFmf9JhJBl9g2rH4hxNPVpfWdYb5qsZwk2CYqV_seQK-aZUv4ih9-SkzTIWWKJ9B7nkv2jZcnmdgRR7pSQL_x27hWdnurb19nDsP317MosUzz8y6HEA/s1600/IMG_9189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicLx5TQ1WOjXZMmWj1T5YiY4ilqFmf9JhJBl9g2rH4hxNPVpfWdYb5qsZwk2CYqV_seQK-aZUv4ih9-SkzTIWWKJ9B7nkv2jZcnmdgRR7pSQL_x27hWdnurb19nDsP317MosUzz8y6HEA/s400/IMG_9189.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTd6D3CRZsoPLRkIh_P9meXEGt_LbREGmDh2wVaeUOSWwOgpTM7uIlSrwLq3XKp-5dIRzeBOJUBcJM64_UyTtBjvxL2itcuHQj3dsn1Z4ol91RUw9qGtz2LjK3CiQ18SYRfuLnQET1MCY/s1600/IMG_9238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTd6D3CRZsoPLRkIh_P9meXEGt_LbREGmDh2wVaeUOSWwOgpTM7uIlSrwLq3XKp-5dIRzeBOJUBcJM64_UyTtBjvxL2itcuHQj3dsn1Z4ol91RUw9qGtz2LjK3CiQ18SYRfuLnQET1MCY/s400/IMG_9238.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After the river cruise, we slowly made out way back to the train station for trip back to Munich. Along the way, we had a gelato too.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx6exSI1mE7kQJXmZlxwJjqCfUdAjN-Bt7Q-TgNWF8bXJKn_W4pcSoxUUlXr7WMG0fE7KHanPvCt8kXehYSt-l8RrPvLhP1SmW7vzXKCNSn2r21ZVoUpCdCA5JOmGmdddkijxdloPGNSw/s1600/IMG_9326.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx6exSI1mE7kQJXmZlxwJjqCfUdAjN-Bt7Q-TgNWF8bXJKn_W4pcSoxUUlXr7WMG0fE7KHanPvCt8kXehYSt-l8RrPvLhP1SmW7vzXKCNSn2r21ZVoUpCdCA5JOmGmdddkijxdloPGNSw/s400/IMG_9326.CR2" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Cost Breakdown:</h3>
I have spent a total of <b>€182</b> within my 3 days in Prague, and although this might still be expensive to some, there are certain activities described in this post that you are in fact, optional (for example, the river cruise). Additionally, I had booked my accommodation within the Old Town in Prague on <a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?cid=1778823&pcs=1&hl=en&hid=66478&checkin=2017-06-02&checkout=2017-06-04" target="_blank">Agoda</a>, making the expenses slightly higher than expected.<br />
<br />
However, do note that a cheaper accommodation outside of the main district, also meant <u>higher costs incurred</u> travelling in and out of the area. It might just be worthwhile to pay a little more to be right at the heart of the city.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666;">We have avoided taking or using the cabs in Prague Taxi as they are notoriously bad.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666;">Do try to avoid the urge to flag down a cab on the street, especially those parked around train or bus stations. Also, please DO ask about the price in advance and tell the driver you want a printed receipt, which meant they have to turn the meter on. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
For an overview, this is the cost breakdown of my 3 day trip to Prague from Munich.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfRKOIZXPbuXoLUJIjxYKh1nWn2L4seC8YDitN4tXvua6BX6I8Q7C9dSnAQPfDbpc8sUdxDfzA35_8mVVXkwSen-1i8ko4vwBXBlSJ979MhPmHOj_JFDVBNqPVxGC7R-JF8ccyVGq6x84/s1600/Capture.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfRKOIZXPbuXoLUJIjxYKh1nWn2L4seC8YDitN4tXvua6BX6I8Q7C9dSnAQPfDbpc8sUdxDfzA35_8mVVXkwSen-1i8ko4vwBXBlSJ979MhPmHOj_JFDVBNqPVxGC7R-JF8ccyVGq6x84/s640/Capture.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
--------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Whew! There you have it. For those who are interested in travelling to Prague, I hope this post is of help to you! Thank you so much for reading!<br />
Do leave a comment and let me know what you think!<br />
<br />
<br />
Here are some of the information that might be useful to you:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.pragueexperience.com/maps/map.asp" target="_blank">Map of Prague</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.pragueexperience.com/travel/public-transport.asp" target="_blank">Transportation in Prague</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.pragueexperience.com/shops-markets/shopping.asp" target="_blank">Prague Shopping</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g274707-c199900/Prague:Czech-Republic:Prague.Tips.Before.You.Go.html" target="_blank">Tips before going to Prague</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.praguesteamboats.com/vltava-river-cruises-in-prague" target="_blank">Paroplavba River Cruise</a> </li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<su:badge layout="1"></su:badge>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">meixii</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-209256285984790532017-05-22T12:00:00.000+08:002017-05-22T17:40:40.669+08:00Finding my Life Purpose<script async defer data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-tall="true" data-pin-save="true" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5tXUXorekphPKxlwi3_mT989Jz5POfEQX4rzb9_wmWB4Hid4H1_PnCzX7ijSW-FBdWmk7RnEIUQhAELwgMdD7AJL1EfkprNgx5Mv_OyZQRHKoi0NU4uV2Xr5QIjtwlt5XVuXcE325L20/s1600/hisu-lee-169303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5tXUXorekphPKxlwi3_mT989Jz5POfEQX4rzb9_wmWB4Hid4H1_PnCzX7ijSW-FBdWmk7RnEIUQhAELwgMdD7AJL1EfkprNgx5Mv_OyZQRHKoi0NU4uV2Xr5QIjtwlt5XVuXcE325L20/s400/hisu-lee-169303.jpg" width="290" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For those who have been following my blog, it's been a full week since I released<br />
the post on <a href="https://thiscache.blogspot.com2017/05/depression-is-for-weak.html" target="_blank"><b>Depression is For The Weak</b></a>.<br />
Following that, I'd like to touch on another topic/issue that had started bothering me every since completing my studies.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">What do I want to do with my life?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">What is my life purpose?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div>
To be honest, this isn't a question that has popped up suddenly out of the blue. There has been so many times in my life where I seemingly get stuck in the moment and not know what to do next. The only difference? The question came back with a vengeance ever since graduation.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'd think that such scenarios - where one does not know what to do next - would apply to all of us at least once in lives, at different stages. Whether we are entering college or university, graduating, applying for a job, recovering from a breakup, or entering retirement, we all have a point in our lives where we don’t know what to do next. And in such cases, we are all seeking for an answer or solution that will enable us to survive another day.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For those who already has a career but is stuck in a job you hate, you’re (unfortunately) not alone. In Singapore where I am from, workers here are an unhappy and pessimistic lot. According to a <a href="http://www.todayonline.com/singapore/singapore-workers-unhappiest-southeast-asia-survey" target="_blank">survey</a> conducted across seven Asian nations (Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia and Hong Kong), Singapore had ranked the <b>lowest </b>in job happiness. In another study, out of the 5,670 employees surveyed in Singapore, <b>75%</b> say they view their job only as a way to make a living and nothing more. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Apparently, this isn't an isolated case experienced only in Singapore.</div>
<div>
In fact, <a href="http://www.todayonline.com/singapore/almost-half-singaporeans-are-dissatisfied-their-jobs-survey" target="_blank">56% of Japanese employees</a> and <a href="https://www.investorsinpeople.com/press/60-cent-uk-workers-not-happy-their-jobs" target="_blank">60% of UK workers</a> are not satisfied in their current job, and an astonishing 80% of Americans are dissatisfied with their jobs.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://freeyork.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/HappinessIndex00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://freeyork.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/HappinessIndex00.jpg" width="293" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In my humble opinion, I think some of this unhappiness stems from the concept of “life purpose” itself, where we believe that are each born for a greater purpose - whether to contribute a novel and groundbreaking idea to the world, or to save and support the less fortunate. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Life isn’t predictable and the solutions we seek to answer our life questions isn't easily found or understood. There are definitely no rules to follow and we do have to work hard to try and define our path in life. Often, when we are required to make important decisions or choices in our lives, we can possibly become overwhelmed and so choose to do nothing – its just too hard, there are may be too many repercussions or consequences. We become paralysed rather than be liberated by the power of choice.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgULvdRfF9F4ZWHGNYGAfN63QJnw7fmvwRgqzhaSMySao-IsYlGgRxkKgtxRmf7TkhQPKl-vgkWZo1tijWLRkKurYO8aIJu4m2ujuNbiABwcC_rWEcAXX9c51ghCnt1QKnfvHygRYG0UpE/s1600/Untitled-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgULvdRfF9F4ZWHGNYGAfN63QJnw7fmvwRgqzhaSMySao-IsYlGgRxkKgtxRmf7TkhQPKl-vgkWZo1tijWLRkKurYO8aIJu4m2ujuNbiABwcC_rWEcAXX9c51ghCnt1QKnfvHygRYG0UpE/s400/Untitled-2.jpg" width="282" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Although I have yet to truly sort out my own issues, I like to read stories by others about how they lived their lives, their life lessons and how they overcame their challenges in life. These stories inspire, motivate, and gives me hope especially when I am unsure about what to do next in my life. It may not be a one stop solution, but it does help me sort out some of the confusion in my mind and in my heart.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> “Look back upon your life and ask: What up to now have you truly loved, what has raised your soul, what ruled it and at the same time made you happy? Line up these objects of reverence before you, and see how they form a ladder on which you have so far climbed up toward your true self.” – Friedrich Nietzsche</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
A long time ago, when I was a child, I used to imagine and dream a lot. I used to lie in my room, writing stories, drawing comics, dreaming about the endless adventures or experiences one could have when you grow up. It truly was a great time, and I enjoyed my doodling not because I wanted anyone to see it, but for the sheer joy of it.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And then, somewhere in between while growing up, I stopped. And I don’t remember why.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We all have a tendency to lose touch with what we loved and enjoyed as a child. It may have been the society and social pressures while growing up, it may have been our parent's expectations of us, it may have been the lack of time. Whatever it was, it squeezed the passion out of us. We’re taught that the only reason to do something is if we’re somehow rewarded or recognised for it - be it monetary or social media recognition.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglbHTQ4UXPPuzALsy09VWdNB4j5Vag_OD5U865RGGO-lBmxCnIY0b21FXfAcu5LYuhlEQqURE10sCvYGCpdegCqv92xBABE5L1tb7kSV9igsAmfQdz9J7cX0oQwdFvPlSEq9LHfawJHlE/s1600/2013-07-08_growing_up.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglbHTQ4UXPPuzALsy09VWdNB4j5Vag_OD5U865RGGO-lBmxCnIY0b21FXfAcu5LYuhlEQqURE10sCvYGCpdegCqv92xBABE5L1tb7kSV9igsAmfQdz9J7cX0oQwdFvPlSEq9LHfawJHlE/s640/2013-07-08_growing_up.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Now that I am on this journey of self-discovery, I'd like to help my readers too. From my own experiences, I have created this worksheet for all of you. Feel free to download a copy for yourself and I hope it'll help you wherever possible. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Thank you for reading, and for following my journey.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0uJZeoT0W1moZqZ9R4fJgfMGJJOGI4CXkCEY8UGnCvYFbZqbCOFPJsfAOm3A9O9gfL_Py-TnJrUmjdimry8u9C7E6ynV4Q_sJMao4YPi5PVTlfGXmvglVravmZSCbAByZ_Zsdx5bHGTI/s1600/Worksheet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0uJZeoT0W1moZqZ9R4fJgfMGJJOGI4CXkCEY8UGnCvYFbZqbCOFPJsfAOm3A9O9gfL_Py-TnJrUmjdimry8u9C7E6ynV4Q_sJMao4YPi5PVTlfGXmvglVravmZSCbAByZ_Zsdx5bHGTI/s400/Worksheet.jpg" width="282" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/zem3a2x1saxeisf/Worksheet.pdf?dl=0" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Download your FREE worksheet here.</span></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">meixii</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-19164871157364747452017-05-18T12:00:00.000+08:002017-05-18T22:29:32.944+08:00It's World Turtle Day!
<script async defer data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-tall="true" data-pin-save="true" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Bet you didn't know that this coming Tuesday, 23 May 2017 is World Turtle Day. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Well, the more you know.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"></span><br />
<div style="font-size: x-large; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><img alt="Image result for World Turtle Day" height="320" src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/14601f_7771718653fe45b3acef07271c81cee0.jpg_srz_445_445_85_22_0.50_1.20_0.00_jpg_srz" width="320" /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="font-size: x-large; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">American Tortoise Rescue, a nonprofit organization established in 1990 for the protection of all species of tortoise and turtles, and this day was created as an annual observance to help people celebrate and protect turtles and tortoises and their disappearing habitats around the world.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Although you and I may be just one person, we can all contribute to help save these beautiful creatures!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ul>
<li><b>Don't purchase</b> a turtle or tortoise from a pet shop, this increases demand from the wild.</li>
<li><b>Do not remove</b> turtles or tortoises from the wild unless they are sick or injured. </li>
<li><b>Report</b> <b>the illegal sales</b> or trade of turtles and tortoises to your local animal control shelter.</li>
<li>If a tortoise is crossing a street, pick it up and send it in the same direction it was going – if you try to make it go back, it will turn right around again.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><u>Fun fact:</u></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">Not all turtle species can hide their heads inside their shells!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So to commemorate this day, I have created a turtle wallpaper for all of you. Hopefully the illustrated turtle reminds you of a certain cartoon.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Feel free to download the file below and crop it however you’d like. </div>
<div>
It should fit any device nicely. 😊</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6uM-w4EBVW64f5oDohKCTLTg4h1YXBnZusEOWz2Myq_sxOphD19704tib_WV06-qRlWb30Qrtnkj9Js5tSNrZCQp7EwnYwYaoJq4z2gxUUuin2OoYjx5FEcVSMikKOzodcL9J4I6UPQE/s1600/Turtle+640x1136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6uM-w4EBVW64f5oDohKCTLTg4h1YXBnZusEOWz2Myq_sxOphD19704tib_WV06-qRlWb30Qrtnkj9Js5tSNrZCQp7EwnYwYaoJq4z2gxUUuin2OoYjx5FEcVSMikKOzodcL9J4I6UPQE/s320/Turtle+640x1136.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">iPhone 5, iPhone 5s, iPod touch 5th gen - 1136 x 640</span>.</i></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir1zt3Svl55lA5agH_omrRCh55qn8bEZY3Dl-y7tm4eQiA3v_VM4FR9Z2Nm9eP32kpWB7CpgaPcW0GP62z4xpQOazblkMpPspm_npgBeb3zZ4HH_OpuFPw3rVkQl8fohbw0nh9F_vEBvY/s1600/Turtle+750x1334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir1zt3Svl55lA5agH_omrRCh55qn8bEZY3Dl-y7tm4eQiA3v_VM4FR9Z2Nm9eP32kpWB7CpgaPcW0GP62z4xpQOazblkMpPspm_npgBeb3zZ4HH_OpuFPw3rVkQl8fohbw0nh9F_vEBvY/s320/Turtle+750x1334.jpg" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="font-size: x-small; white-space: pre;"> </span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">iPhone 6, iPhone 6s, iPhone 7 - 1334 x 750.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td><td class="tr-caption"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><br />Do let me know if there are any issues faced when downloading or saving the file!</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: orange;">xoxo,</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: orange;">meixii</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;">
</span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;">
</span></div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-51436520265080434982017-05-15T12:00:00.000+08:002017-05-15T18:02:38.128+08:00Depression is for the Weak<script async="" data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-save="true" data-pin-tall="true" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Depression, what is it exactly? </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Many have used this word so loosely and freely that many of us don't actually know what it means to refer to the event that is called depression in the noun sense. It's definitely not the Monday blues, or feeling down for a short period of time, in which the word in this context is really a verb.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="fullpost" style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi48qmoExbz6Lrp9MmRJEKXQN854mWWchkpRWSV1a6DQFBk5GmG6UWdRu1GcNEM55itdcr3JAnhpAz1gqLa0lAXAlWp7dNBfs7mAPRke26Px66eQ12dFOfd2a4PCpSBrQV3ybhlUin9zCc/s1600/pexels-photo-120268.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi48qmoExbz6Lrp9MmRJEKXQN854mWWchkpRWSV1a6DQFBk5GmG6UWdRu1GcNEM55itdcr3JAnhpAz1gqLa0lAXAlWp7dNBfs7mAPRke26Px66eQ12dFOfd2a4PCpSBrQV3ybhlUin9zCc/s400/pexels-photo-120268.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am by no means an expert or doctor myself, but certain experiences I have had personally over the past 1.5 months had got me thinking and getting very concerned over this medical condition. Although there are increasing awareness of this health issue, I do feel that many are still not quite informed when it comes to this.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It's often said that depression results from a chemical imbalance, but that simply does not convey the complexity of this disease. Yes you heard me right, i'd like to call this condition a <b>disease</b>. It's no different from the more commonly known health conditions such as Asthma, Dengue Fever and the Common Flu - which are also known as diseases. Research suggests that depression has many possible causes, including faulty mood regulation by the brain, genetic vulnerability, stressful life events, medications, and/or medical problems. More often than not, a person would be experiencing several of these issues, thereby resulting in depression.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This also meant that anyone and everyone is capable of suffering from depression.</span></i></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">To be really really honest, I do believe that I was suffering from mild depression in the past month, although I was never properly diagnosed by a physician. Depression is a really difficult condition to understand and explain, and even till now I find it difficult to put my feelings or my thoughts into words. And because it is difficult to understand, it does make it hard for friends and family members to offer meaningful support. Depression isn’t exactly the same for everyone, so there’s not a fixed rule or a model to identify depression.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
Myth #1: Depressed People are Suicidal All the Time</span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VxISYwt4sCm2eGqVSvGDj8gbAVgY7O9Qk8UrRx5hv5BI5a4_TZkapSQGrTKnDVXpt9beZHC6f4y4osc54cf3LDWPCIv4nn978Dpy_GgiqSZDn1Q3J-7j6uInBaNlB74Z72yiWl7ivNU/s1600/StockSnap_MI902J0X1H.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VxISYwt4sCm2eGqVSvGDj8gbAVgY7O9Qk8UrRx5hv5BI5a4_TZkapSQGrTKnDVXpt9beZHC6f4y4osc54cf3LDWPCIv4nn978Dpy_GgiqSZDn1Q3J-7j6uInBaNlB74Z72yiWl7ivNU/s400/StockSnap_MI902J0X1H.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Depression isn't all about feeling suicidal or sad - although those feelings do come by every now and then - more often than not, it is the lack of emotions and the ability to feel anything. I’d akin this to a meaningless fog, where you become detached from your own emotional self and have lost the ability to connect with any of the things you love. It’s a void in your heart and in your mind, where you just about feel as calm as still water can be. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">To be honest, it was a really boring and scary place for me to be. You just get through the day meaninglessly without feeling any happiness or sadness and you didn’t have the energy, empathy or motivation to feel (even for your friends). It’s as if your emotional capacity was gone, and you went through the day thinking that nothing mattered, and you’d quickly start to question your life purpose.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Basically, “Meh” became the word that properly describes you, and your life.</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Fr7yBtwAtBTclpAwJ-teiB2kGf_Ylarj-bghUo-JssdU9kckQ2C6EVG4HaP3n1S1gRwsMcQFKuwQn0yW7YrX2Yi33ZmCgPTl2alxy_cRjrzDu0jKln86wkXj6q-fRo8YCY_x9f6qN9k/s1600/140423-International-Day-of-Meh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Fr7yBtwAtBTclpAwJ-teiB2kGf_Ylarj-bghUo-JssdU9kckQ2C6EVG4HaP3n1S1gRwsMcQFKuwQn0yW7YrX2Yi33ZmCgPTl2alxy_cRjrzDu0jKln86wkXj6q-fRo8YCY_x9f6qN9k/s320/140423-International-Day-of-Meh.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
Myth #2: Depressed People Aren’t Helping Themselves</span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi98_hIpC21ezyW9iwEHVm_MNiRDJLbjGQ1lilqDwYMxsjBtAlXZsgs1N2YQQOYT0rksx1HPs-wGM7VYgHspjbiqEnn7VBXUTl9P82F6N-lzhD4ssuyA4oWE0DKP3GfuCGu2w6tSpRtReA/s1600/1ff9318149da3318ac41063bb577c317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi98_hIpC21ezyW9iwEHVm_MNiRDJLbjGQ1lilqDwYMxsjBtAlXZsgs1N2YQQOYT0rksx1HPs-wGM7VYgHspjbiqEnn7VBXUTl9P82F6N-lzhD4ssuyA4oWE0DKP3GfuCGu2w6tSpRtReA/s320/1ff9318149da3318ac41063bb577c317.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is something that I have to emphasise which is totally untrue. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">You’d think that the person isn’t trying hard enough to get him/herself to recover. You'd think that the person doesn't want to recover. You'd think that the person probably gave up and it doesn't matter if you tried to help them. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">What I have to say to this is, that this is all not true. For most cases, it is definitely not true. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
Often, people who are struggling with depression do not want/like the state that they are in, and it's in their wishes and prayers to be back being "normal" again. It definitely would not help if you were to tell the sufferer that he/she should "be more positive" or that he/she should "try to be happy", because that simply does not work. What could be even worse than saying those things, would be to downplay their health issue and tell them things like "stop being sorry for yourself", "try not to be depressed", "it's just in your head" or that "life is not fair, you just have to deal with it".</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">If you do not say such thoughtless words to people suffering from cancer, or a couple going through a difficult divorce, you probably shouldn't say it to someone with depression.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">It's not nice, and it doesn't help.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<h3>
Myth #3: Depressed People Can Control Their Emotions</h3>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEuIMwcVNYyAAtaZJRX6NpSbqpKL7MkWITNK28j30K-SxZpiNI8Y-wS30e6lfPqKxLKZ7Ip17W-2Eqo_2Mex489dpI141F0lhwwEEndwt_9dL15QT0rk8RULCR_8yeTaDgIjK_cgtIQ2Q/s1600/howiseemylife-copy-588b435fb40ea__700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEuIMwcVNYyAAtaZJRX6NpSbqpKL7MkWITNK28j30K-SxZpiNI8Y-wS30e6lfPqKxLKZ7Ip17W-2Eqo_2Mex489dpI141F0lhwwEEndwt_9dL15QT0rk8RULCR_8yeTaDgIjK_cgtIQ2Q/s400/howiseemylife-copy-588b435fb40ea__700.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sufferers often talk about
their life as if they are living in a kind of dream or nightmare, where
everything feels somewhat meaningless and surreal. They'll deal with irrational thoughts and feelings and many have described their mental state using analogies like being stuck under water or down a well. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I personally have unknowingly used the analogy of being in a well, and I'd tell my other half that I do get that he is trying to help me. It's akin to seeing him holding a rope, trying to get me out of the well, but I just didn't have the energy or strength to pull myself out of the ditch that I was in.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">“<i>Every minute of every day was lived as if I was almost at the point of drowning. The point after you’ve stopped struggling and you’re just lying there, watching the rest of the world as your lungs fill with water and the water envelopes you and you think 'I don’t belong here anymore.' </i>”</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Myth #4: Depressed People Always Pretend to be Happy</span></h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="Image result for depression smile" height="320" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a5/9f/31/a59f3137b9d54f79c6da7b5c742cb4e2.jpg" width="304" /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">True, and False.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">People struggling with depression sometimes have moments when things feel real again and they seem to be able to get a grip on life. It's a short glimpse of what it feels like not to be depressed. This can last for minutes, hours or days, and within that period I feel like I was alive again, and that there was hope in this world. The only downside? These feelings never lasted very long. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For the remaining periods of time, you'd just put on a 'happy mask' for your friends and family to see. Considering that people want you to be fine and happy, they tend to believe you if you try to fool them - it can be pretty easy to do if you want to. After a while, you teach yourself how to act normal and it successfully prevents people from getting upset and worried.</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">To be honest, while struggling with depression, sufferers would require and need that one friend who sees past the happy mask. We may not acknowledge the fact that we need them, and we may not respond to their attempts to help, but little messages on a daily basis - be it texting or post-its - are greatly appreciated and it lets us know that they truly care. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It's a support system, and it does help.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">------------------------------------</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For some reason, we’ve become a culture that thinks asking or looking for support is weak. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Why is that weak? Connection is a key human need. Denying that need is false bravado.</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am truly and deeply grateful for the love that I was receiving while going through that difficult phase. I might not be what you call a typical patient suffering from </span>severe <span style="font-family: inherit;">depression, but I do believe I was on the verge of stepping into hot water. I am currently feeling much much better, though there are instances here and there where I step back into negativity, and anxiety. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Slowly but surely, I believe we can all help that person at risk in our lives. The main point is to be supportive, let him/her know that they are not alone in this. Sometimes, a hug goes a long way and will benefit the person in ways you can never imagine.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">One last thing though.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Do avoid telling the person things like "you have a lot to be happy about". I'm pretty sure they know that fact - just as I did while I was struggling. What I DO notice from my own experience was that, you pointing out all the reasons <i>I should be happy</i> is only going to have the opposite effect.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I wish all of you nothing but the best.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">We will all get through this. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange; font-family: inherit;">meixii</span></div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-12950043098047991662017-05-11T12:00:00.000+08:002017-05-11T16:05:42.955+08:00Tips and Ideas to Start Your Bullet Journal<script async="" data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-save="true" data-pin-tall="true" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: x-small; text-align: left;">(Note that this post contains affiliate links to a product. It is something that I personally use, support and would recommend without an affiliate link.)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
Aren't we all inspired by all those pretty looking journals seen on Pinterest? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you didn't already know, bullet journals are a thing, and you can have one too!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVgC0ibT2pYEsiCdq7PcYGSFLcGEDcAt8tbZrCRJWcsUF5RDHv5_cFiM0YNZ8rNnKebJ83SUPxiCU2zkLSRY7RLVy4f0-bhuzAfrRSOJ4cfrUUNKVAU1IH7FYO5OMQHWb-jDEqFuF3Jvo/s1600/IMG_9685.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVgC0ibT2pYEsiCdq7PcYGSFLcGEDcAt8tbZrCRJWcsUF5RDHv5_cFiM0YNZ8rNnKebJ83SUPxiCU2zkLSRY7RLVy4f0-bhuzAfrRSOJ4cfrUUNKVAU1IH7FYO5OMQHWb-jDEqFuF3Jvo/s400/IMG_9685.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
From the official bullet journal website,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
“<i>The Bullet Journal is a customizable and forgiving organization system. It can be your to-do list, sketchbook, notebook, and diary, but most likely, it will be all of the above. It will teach you to do more with less.</i>” </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Here are some photos of the things that I have personally done for my own bullet journal. It's not extensive, and it's definitely NOT a checklist. All i'm hoping for, is to provide some inspiration for your own journal! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
For those who are wondering my choice journal, I chose to use the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015NG44GG?ie=UTF8&tag=thiscache-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B015NG44GG" target="_blank">Moleskine Dotted Notebook</a> over the lined ones as I prefer flexibility when i'm writing. For those who find the Moleskine branding expensive (I do too, actually), you can also get the cheaper <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1441323716?ie=UTF8&tag=thiscache-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=1441323716" target="_blank">Essentials</a> version, at $10.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
1. Your Best and Favourite Ideas </h3>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizw-yorp-1Pvz5fW3nnPm53o9C6lwWI0S_vfEqTs27YWm85xbVqZrIytZ-lqqYR0AFu4C8trjG064N6VAXvdHOdu40XKNR81WLb4Ar2ZeV4KW3ycU3n5rKevl58hP-tp3hp5RepKgR4AU/s1600/IMG_9668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizw-yorp-1Pvz5fW3nnPm53o9C6lwWI0S_vfEqTs27YWm85xbVqZrIytZ-lqqYR0AFu4C8trjG064N6VAXvdHOdu40XKNR81WLb4Ar2ZeV4KW3ycU3n5rKevl58hP-tp3hp5RepKgR4AU/s400/IMG_9668.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In my journal, I have created a page containing quotes and a page with all the header styles I liked.<br />
<br />
The quotes section is important to me, and I really do need it for the times I feel down, or days where I needed a confidence boost. I draw and add on to the quotes section in negative situations to remind myself that things aren't as bad as they seem, and to boost my mood as well.<br />
<br />
As for the header styles, I believe much don't have to be said. It's basically to document my designs and to help me when I get stuck thinking about how to draw my titles. <br />
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2edzwrzlckjUa641ldzx5kx6bpYL_T_fsBND6qyiaVMLybNVDPd8esh5cd9q8eV_1LnZrYJRBG3hKyTklSNTw0wGL24zLZDYhhL3V1RufR8puOJyyDcI8f_roSMuNnj6T0fkWUCqmPGY/s1600/IMG_9670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2edzwrzlckjUa641ldzx5kx6bpYL_T_fsBND6qyiaVMLybNVDPd8esh5cd9q8eV_1LnZrYJRBG3hKyTklSNTw0wGL24zLZDYhhL3V1RufR8puOJyyDcI8f_roSMuNnj6T0fkWUCqmPGY/s320/IMG_9670.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Header/Title Styles.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
2. Monthly Calendar and Check List</h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXF53eDlWT8TFgoaA1NWzIVhK87H0MI9aFzTAR1J3UbpU43H3IAfTTU61gogYwLgZEAy0lYCKLoLMP2akFPwoBn1wCClb-ngqvxC_H2GoxV6D5Mt-9mSvDH6-PWCVaM5IKj5Ybq2ftJLw/s1600/IMG_9673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXF53eDlWT8TFgoaA1NWzIVhK87H0MI9aFzTAR1J3UbpU43H3IAfTTU61gogYwLgZEAy0lYCKLoLMP2akFPwoBn1wCClb-ngqvxC_H2GoxV6D5Mt-9mSvDH6-PWCVaM5IKj5Ybq2ftJLw/s320/IMG_9673.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Regular monthly calendar.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After all, this is still a journal//diary to track and organise your activities, it'll definitely be beneficial to have a calendar in your journal (whether drawn or printed). I personally have 2 different styles drawn in my bullet journal - each for its own purpose. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The regular calendar gives you a perfect overview of the dates and days within that month, which makes it perfect for planning activities, meetups or whatever is on your plate. For the other, I have a "list view" for my calendar, which gives me a clear view of all my activities planned that month, along with a short description. Hey, each as its perks!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg873jiKJIlJczXzo8UsisAxqJ8q8-FgirAL843qpknuE1VPjMWKadgZHWlRONnh14BgdCjmygtv0PitTwOsRYksyNTh45hvvir2egaFu1NghKwEq8NvjUeCMRLhybIOtaBuI8VqeDK5zc/s1600/IMG_9684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg873jiKJIlJczXzo8UsisAxqJ8q8-FgirAL843qpknuE1VPjMWKadgZHWlRONnh14BgdCjmygtv0PitTwOsRYksyNTh45hvvir2egaFu1NghKwEq8NvjUeCMRLhybIOtaBuI8VqeDK5zc/s320/IMG_9684.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">"List view" of my calendar.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
3. List of Things to Do</h3>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhee8BA6pDrjkV2WIMJ9uJYvWgxswf9vQF4SkQMKcEEf-tLUZSWP400EHa7YGbk5X2K3NDvu8kQh3nDkmEH-1G7J73XuIzbmJObOBRYupPp2cyCpc5vLKL31YKCdbaGC8o8IbYkBuak9QM/s1600/IMG_9676.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhee8BA6pDrjkV2WIMJ9uJYvWgxswf9vQF4SkQMKcEEf-tLUZSWP400EHa7YGbk5X2K3NDvu8kQh3nDkmEH-1G7J73XuIzbmJObOBRYupPp2cyCpc5vLKL31YKCdbaGC8o8IbYkBuak9QM/s320/IMG_9676.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is just another of the many lists in my journal.<br />
<br />
I'm sure we all do suggest plans with our friends or partners, but never got round doing them simply because we forgot about them, or came up with other ideas. So to solve that problem, I have this list of things that I wanted to do with my boyfriend at one point, or another.</div>
<div>
<br />
With this list, we'll make an effort to meet up spend time together, and do those activities. It's also great for spontaneous days when we are out of ideas! :)<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
3. Resolutions</h3>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHCuCewJtZP1GYZW6UxM7BVsn4k1NHsQZd9GhEus08iN-YeQPsUAR_X5nS9lVuaB_ticVxSADcWejqud4QT05m64XX12ecWsJGjxFNrnvAl_Rp57VHX53ffCpSGSyNyfzOODB6umCqdYo/s1600/IMG_9682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHCuCewJtZP1GYZW6UxM7BVsn4k1NHsQZd9GhEus08iN-YeQPsUAR_X5nS9lVuaB_ticVxSADcWejqud4QT05m64XX12ecWsJGjxFNrnvAl_Rp57VHX53ffCpSGSyNyfzOODB6umCqdYo/s320/IMG_9682.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
New year resolutions, monthly resolutions. It doesn't matter when or where you started writing your journal, this would be a great addition to your diary/journal.<br />
<br />
By writing your resolutions down, you make a conscious decision to do or not do something in order to accomplish a personal goal or break a habit. It is great especially since you get to look back at the past month/year and reflect on what made you happy or proud of yourself. It's definitely a step towards improving yourselves as the new month/year begins.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
4. Your Hobbies, Your Loves</h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhI9KpzJ0fiRFfpLrjrzkYdRQV8EB8J5Kf9Qc9sxw3NSmNm15e2z5cHym5HHCoVsjq-hDYgQlXAaOnBoM2by3r9zJ-X_DRiVFqYXvvw9QGzpQQ9NCLBZs7LCc8TfKuF7oHEnWL6XmMnEg/s1600/IMG_9674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhI9KpzJ0fiRFfpLrjrzkYdRQV8EB8J5Kf9Qc9sxw3NSmNm15e2z5cHym5HHCoVsjq-hDYgQlXAaOnBoM2by3r9zJ-X_DRiVFqYXvvw9QGzpQQ9NCLBZs7LCc8TfKuF7oHEnWL6XmMnEg/s320/IMG_9674.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I like collecting beautifully shaped or coloured leaves.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivg6q1GUFa6tQDDs-42QW7XYWTB7Bl4z5kzttMN7Sxi38453yyIsg1SJNOnifjaxugDBOyww9es3eN1L7QGPj6CEcaNLAaVvlzArzP6e9tiIPzkuJlT5T2XFsPE43h3rbeH8_brc6IG40/s1600/IMG_9672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivg6q1GUFa6tQDDs-42QW7XYWTB7Bl4z5kzttMN7Sxi38453yyIsg1SJNOnifjaxugDBOyww9es3eN1L7QGPj6CEcaNLAaVvlzArzP6e9tiIPzkuJlT5T2XFsPE43h3rbeH8_brc6IG40/s320/IMG_9672.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I describe my tea experiences, to pin point my favourite tea.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
Your bullet journal can also be a book of collections - be it your hobby, or a pet peeve. As you'd see above. I collect leaves among other things (feathers, stamps, cute wrappers). Call me weird if you want, but hey, that's just me! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Do not be restricted, especially not by yourself. There's no format for the bullet journal, and that's why it's so amazingly unique and precious to have. It contains your time, your effort and your memories. I even wrote my university study notes in my bullet journal - as untypical as it sounds!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
5. Travel Ideas and Collection</h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXFyr9Wka_j8R7PmBCAP2TuQ4lN3dK4cm44bR2dQBramddU3hcAYDGj4T9T1dTR_cJ4Dzx4Ycq-82BvJkNkecZB5gQMcxc_XUR8yBSV_dcy6IYDoUJIOGIm5Z9QfH4umIK6jerfDHtiis/s1600/IMG_9671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXFyr9Wka_j8R7PmBCAP2TuQ4lN3dK4cm44bR2dQBramddU3hcAYDGj4T9T1dTR_cJ4Dzx4Ycq-82BvJkNkecZB5gQMcxc_XUR8yBSV_dcy6IYDoUJIOGIm5Z9QfH4umIK6jerfDHtiis/s320/IMG_9671.JPG" width="242" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">My bucket list!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjApcrnhsHu-k3T42s6glGJMuekJKvOis463NhfOQa18ouPtRFBuOKwoDx8I_HFXkHtOiWgiiAR3st6ev-fcs5tzJvQHCC_xcqMnBHMwTd6fHZPoG4a3Atl2WmKakTNAytmzsO8hPYKn_0/s1600/IMG_9675.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjApcrnhsHu-k3T42s6glGJMuekJKvOis463NhfOQa18ouPtRFBuOKwoDx8I_HFXkHtOiWgiiAR3st6ev-fcs5tzJvQHCC_xcqMnBHMwTd6fHZPoG4a3Atl2WmKakTNAytmzsO8hPYKn_0/s320/IMG_9675.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tickets from my travels!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I started this journal a year ago, and I'm still working on it, feeding it with more information and more memories. I have a page with all the locations on my bucket list, and it's all definitely going to be crossed out, one day. One day, I will.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For the moment, I keep all the tickets and documents from whatever travels I get the chance to, and I have pasted some in my journal, just so I wouldn't be placing them everywhere and losing them.</div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<h3>
6. Period Tracker </h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQczHk9cw1EQkcjFzPGTyXo-06Sg9zyzHCMFSDMm8Y1_0ovMcpYyaYOxWdc3J_r3A-gDXGNdzdEnlvGt4vE_1JCOR1hVd-8ikWpxk6C162_6XJIaDgNfAajgUBcrlK69EUUsMkwAUPkIo/s1600/IMG_9669.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQczHk9cw1EQkcjFzPGTyXo-06Sg9zyzHCMFSDMm8Y1_0ovMcpYyaYOxWdc3J_r3A-gDXGNdzdEnlvGt4vE_1JCOR1hVd-8ikWpxk6C162_6XJIaDgNfAajgUBcrlK69EUUsMkwAUPkIo/s320/IMG_9669.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I do get that this isn't applicable for all genders, but i'm just putting it here to show you the endless possibilities of your bullet journal. I have this page in my bullet journal to track my period, and be more in touch with my body functions. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #e06666;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">Just a fun fact: </span></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">Did you know that on average, women lose between a few tablespoons to about a cup of blood each month? </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's funny how i'm actually losing so little blood even on months when I feel like i'm bleeding to death.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
------------------------------------</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
Hopefully this post is of good use to you, and have inspired you to start our own bullet journal. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Do leave me a comment, or a link to a photo of your journal if you have decided to start one yourself. If you already have a journal and is just looking for new ideas and inspiration, do leave a comment too. I'd love to hear from you! </div>
<div>
Stay happy and creative!<br />
<br />
<br />
Ps: I swear by the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DLX5M4W?ie=UTF8&tag=thiscache-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B00DLX5M4W" target="_blank">MT Washi Tape</a>. Look it up ;)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">meixii</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<span class="fullpost">
</span>meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-14869398188412696942017-05-08T12:00:00.000+08:002017-06-21T17:11:30.955+08:00How I Travelled to Venice on a Budget<script async="" data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-save="true" data-pin-tall="true" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script><i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><u>Guest post by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fattybellyjelly/" target="_blank">@fattybellyjelly</a></u></span></i><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">(Note that this post contains affiliate links to a product. It is something that I personally use, support and would recommend without an affiliate link.)</span></span></div>
<br />
<i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i>
<br />
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBjHE6NbpBCuBtUEx8SE22VibPOCeYh7ul5tcBx_g3iWHXT_JOT6hNENozNOuYhwN0jOH9eeIV7f3ekuDZVoJxFKCKZbuvqXro6SGNzEot_o2sE7NkKqdpvNhicesy8C5DxlhVc6bn37M/s1600/venice-2048971__479.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="722" data-original-width="509" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBjHE6NbpBCuBtUEx8SE22VibPOCeYh7ul5tcBx_g3iWHXT_JOT6hNENozNOuYhwN0jOH9eeIV7f3ekuDZVoJxFKCKZbuvqXro6SGNzEot_o2sE7NkKqdpvNhicesy8C5DxlhVc6bn37M/s640/venice-2048971__479.jpg" width="450" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Just one
night, I had this spontaneous idea of travelling to Venice, Italy for a short 2
days trip. Yes, 2 days sounds a little short at first but I managed to cover
the places that I’ve planned to go. I used <a href="https://www.goeuro.com/" target="_blank">GoEuro</a> for the planning of this trip and it’s really good because it provides all the information you’ll need for
transportation. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">To make this trip as cheap as possible (go budget!), I considered these 2 options:</span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjVvovKldjTAhVBO48KHXbJBuQQFgglMAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.helloe.com%2Fen%2F&usg=AFQjCNGlcLm8x-zyPMbCskjCBvG-jzroyg&sig2=MkxVN_c6Bd5ZLXprqpDrgw" target="_blank">Hellö Bus</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.google.com.sg/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjHndTPldjTAhXLRI8KHSJvAvsQFgglMAA&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.flixbus.com%2F&usg=AFQjCNERKLgpH1Fr7OYtob53b6D_AZAugQ&sig2=Iaf_pgMThQeWGlVTx0XFXw" target="_blank">Flixbus</a></li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There are just so many pros when you travel by bus:</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>Prices are much lower than train fares</li>
<li>Free WIFI during the route</li>
<li><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: inherit; text-indent: -18pt;">A toilet is available on board</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: inherit; text-indent: -18pt;">S</span>nack
machine for all the hungry tummies</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But having said that, the bus isn't without its cons. Consider this:</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>8
hours bus ride</li>
<li>Seating may not be as comfortable when compared to trains</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I went online and noticed that there were bad reviews regarding customers' experiences with the services by Flixbus. Many of my friends have also warned me against them. So hey, better be safe than sorry; it's an 8 hours ride we are talking about here!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-GB">I then decided to book the </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: rgb(251 , 251 , 251); color: #333333;">Hellö</span><span lang="EN-GB">
bus which costs only </span></span><b style="text-align: left;">€</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-GB"><b>46</b></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-GB"> for a 2-way
trip for one person from Munich to Venice. We took the night bus at 22:00 and
arrived at Venice Tronchetto the next day.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-GB">I personally think the
experience with the bus was a good one as the seats were comfortable and there were connection ports to charge your phones right beside your seats! I also like the fact that
the bus driver does not disturb you from your sleep although he arrived earlier
than scheduled at 05:00 (scheduled time of arrival 06:30). <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsodT1ltYioGs7FlYQMw087UiSJpvGlqRcAaIngLsjmxYlfgaDz6_ylMDjQ_RxHJ3XnAMxJhfYp9SXGLjtUCVuUVJsMv2n6IhDE_m1Of9P-sZ4SXXDNANFxV5lu6jJkfn0cWc1UHU1zWQ/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: inherit; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsodT1ltYioGs7FlYQMw087UiSJpvGlqRcAaIngLsjmxYlfgaDz6_ylMDjQ_RxHJ3XnAMxJhfYp9SXGLjtUCVuUVJsMv2n6IhDE_m1Of9P-sZ4SXXDNANFxV5lu6jJkfn0cWc1UHU1zWQ/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">This is the view from the bus terminal when we arrived and we could instantly smell the fresh salty smell of the ocean. </span><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;"> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-GB">To travel to Venice we took the water bus, also known as the Vaporetto. A standard one-way
fare from Tronchetto to San Marco cost </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white; color: #545454;"><b>€</b></span><span lang="EN-GB"><b>7.50</b> per person. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjyO82i1OQIpeQYWWCzmwvXi1UCE-DWlmvsovZ3ecwEAuIfKyJ6iz61j-ZZQ29eS1hvF9SxQzkVdLfzzM22RqRRJpg_BPIotaOagVHATXIdM1qwx4xrIbl-D8gzfA-vYBBMbCyS_P7WZc/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjyO82i1OQIpeQYWWCzmwvXi1UCE-DWlmvsovZ3ecwEAuIfKyJ6iz61j-ZZQ29eS1hvF9SxQzkVdLfzzM22RqRRJpg_BPIotaOagVHATXIdM1qwx4xrIbl-D8gzfA-vYBBMbCyS_P7WZc/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There are also other ticket options for you to consider:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>one day travel card €20</li>
<li>two days travel card €30</li>
<li>three days travel card €40</li>
<li>seven days travel card €60 </li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">More information
on the prices of Vaporetto can be found </span><a href="http://europeforvisitors.com/venice/articles/venice-vaporetto-and-bus-fare-tables.htm" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_2" o:spid="_x0000_i1046"
type="#_x0000_t75" alt="/Users/peishanloke/Pictures/Photos Library.photoslibrary/resources/proxies/derivatives/02/00/2f6/UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_2f6.jpg"
style='width:467pt;height:312pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/meixii/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image003.jpg"
o:title="UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_2f6"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-GB"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">You may want to choose to sit at the back of the boat for a
better view of the small islands surrounding the main island. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAzF5IGAHk0kM_mGfzZ64ApySK4N4DpeK4G7JgoU01QniUmrbHWLlTEDh07rVIh3TYx35ewQbSy81sSGGPyTXA0IqG2NFtNcv-DbpMo-i6T5mgt8_thSFF3usQvewiPpyT6hqzI7aweR0/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAzF5IGAHk0kM_mGfzZ64ApySK4N4DpeK4G7JgoU01QniUmrbHWLlTEDh07rVIh3TYx35ewQbSy81sSGGPyTXA0IqG2NFtNcv-DbpMo-i6T5mgt8_thSFF3usQvewiPpyT6hqzI7aweR0/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhSCoC728fiID2Ml9XpBP7etcw1ZlQSO7vvvnSRd_5X7eEDBDq06owPoNjaVbNLjTIYIs-eBQptliVMSwG2R9ptPOYj_sUIFwJ3zXSDM4JeR-h8XsuDw8fRFHB75oHpeZa7LwRCBId2Ck/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhSCoC728fiID2Ml9XpBP7etcw1ZlQSO7vvvnSRd_5X7eEDBDq06owPoNjaVbNLjTIYIs-eBQptliVMSwG2R9ptPOYj_sUIFwJ3zXSDM4JeR-h8XsuDw8fRFHB75oHpeZa7LwRCBId2Ck/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb8XAZorEtR0rBHKplfHJFI2h4W4cxisQj7Ns2eY5tMfuzZ7Jwkl3ZxnjwTSVFrnBwhD3wfGLXFp_EhaKIIPLLbVr8ONGVGnCQmKu9r5OFgwq9jzcvWKAHk8DN9ru2uJy6kTD7V7r8rCU/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb8XAZorEtR0rBHKplfHJFI2h4W4cxisQj7Ns2eY5tMfuzZ7Jwkl3ZxnjwTSVFrnBwhD3wfGLXFp_EhaKIIPLLbVr8ONGVGnCQmKu9r5OFgwq9jzcvWKAHk8DN9ru2uJy6kTD7V7r8rCU/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_3" o:spid="_x0000_i1045"
type="#_x0000_t75" alt="/Users/peishanloke/Pictures/Photos Library.photoslibrary/resources/proxies/derivatives/03/00/306/X6hTZrKXTtWbOZvTpzm%Bg_thumb_306.jpg"
style='width:467pt;height:312pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/meixii/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image005.jpg"
o:title="X6hTZrKXTtWbOZvTpzm%Bg_thumb_306"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-GB"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_4" o:spid="_x0000_i1044"
type="#_x0000_t75" alt="../Pictures/Photos%20Library.photoslibrary/resources/proxies/derivatives/03/00/309/cIiiCOm8QnyakcsjfrAdtg_thumb_309.jpg"
style='width:467pt;height:312pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/meixii/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image007.jpg"
o:title="cIiiCOm8QnyakcsjfrAdtg_thumb_309"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-GB"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_5" o:spid="_x0000_i1043"
type="#_x0000_t75" alt="../Pictures/Photos%20Library.photoslibrary/resources/proxies/derivatives/03/00/313/sEeaigMYRj+05jfWpFv9Vg_thumb_313.jpg"
style='width:467pt;height:312pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/meixii/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image009.jpg"
o:title="sEeaigMYRj+05jfWpFv9Vg_thumb_313"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-GB"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And how can we forget to take typical tourist shots?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheiXOtiLLZ73RCrVqk_z0Oer2lpTegtWvyX1h6N9xyqjFIS6c03_vwlVYp_7ReluA7sbJFC5I0rwCjYuIGQlvzW1UCtZWaVnR9jgRrAO8XkN-kHW78BX62q9YuopQaIFXL9KKlrNhB6nc/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheiXOtiLLZ73RCrVqk_z0Oer2lpTegtWvyX1h6N9xyqjFIS6c03_vwlVYp_7ReluA7sbJFC5I0rwCjYuIGQlvzW1UCtZWaVnR9jgRrAO8XkN-kHW78BX62q9YuopQaIFXL9KKlrNhB6nc/s400/6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Day 1: Hello Venice</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Our first stop upon arrival was the <b>Doges’ Palace</b><i>,</i><b style="font-style: italic;"> </b>located at San Marco. We purchased the
St. Marks Square ticket which costs <b><span style="background: white;">€12</span></b><span style="background: white;"> (reduced price; perks of being a student!). It is valid for
the Doges’ Palace and certain parts of the museum. </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background: white;">It's so pretty here, it's impossible for you to take an ugly photo.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggPpaqh5Eiax-nxzN_ift4b-WlJP0wAzu-NXMSfe1JqZq-NbNhBcLBndVmFTQJ0_oEi-4NLcm0_O5gtuUdfm65r6cblFcEy-pnaAwI9GVlke0rH8bJ56IEFwHdaCN-_P6JjZt2Fnc8XOw/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggPpaqh5Eiax-nxzN_ift4b-WlJP0wAzu-NXMSfe1JqZq-NbNhBcLBndVmFTQJ0_oEi-4NLcm0_O5gtuUdfm65r6cblFcEy-pnaAwI9GVlke0rH8bJ56IEFwHdaCN-_P6JjZt2Fnc8XOw/s400/7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTcZ-YlB5lBiLImfKoM0Oy4KEP295wFTc6AGQFu72rFwdn1L3nPDCA99sHntekYyg7LxdiXgs1yj457bXjVxPex6kGTLy3AvV1HWX2ljb_n4y_wkFgza-iuqhxg2sYkUPhE4RgmRkse8Q/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTcZ-YlB5lBiLImfKoM0Oy4KEP295wFTc6AGQFu72rFwdn1L3nPDCA99sHntekYyg7LxdiXgs1yj457bXjVxPex6kGTLy3AvV1HWX2ljb_n4y_wkFgza-iuqhxg2sYkUPhE4RgmRkse8Q/s400/8.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Here are our tickets!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiieTWbAPfFQBKrpmaSjccSmtsOWwjl6ek989qFg-cLJfJlW3GVR5ENnYTl9T8APClNgxyu69qE0GpjaJsKycsER5pcTLamLO8frwJT0K9BcC6VI3ytDbjIzZ_rkHPjub0pJpKV5r1pDV8/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiieTWbAPfFQBKrpmaSjccSmtsOWwjl6ek989qFg-cLJfJlW3GVR5ENnYTl9T8APClNgxyu69qE0GpjaJsKycsER5pcTLamLO8frwJT0K9BcC6VI3ytDbjIzZ_rkHPjub0pJpKV5r1pDV8/s400/9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizR24AcQAs_gfRjypjFG81My36MfnXBTfSiZMico0FH10QODL-FbpeEUX6eseK4XJE0pfkmi45V3CEn0cWxWQEm-L2ztM8xAgx3u7IQBjEHCbmNb-Z_B9f8qvmI3e4Pj3SWzB3Ces70Wk/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizR24AcQAs_gfRjypjFG81My36MfnXBTfSiZMico0FH10QODL-FbpeEUX6eseK4XJE0pfkmi45V3CEn0cWxWQEm-L2ztM8xAgx3u7IQBjEHCbmNb-Z_B9f8qvmI3e4Pj3SWzB3Ces70Wk/s400/10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Honestly, I’m not a
fan of museums and so I didn’t stay for long. But if you are interested in history, I believe you’ll like this place a whole lot!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I then went on to the next stop – <b><i>Campanile di San Marco</i></b> also known as
the Belltower of St. Marks. It's just beside the Doges’ Palace, making it the perfect location to visit with minimal walking. For this, the entrance
ticket costs <b><span style="background: white;">€8 </span></b><span style="background: white;">per
person. </span></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">This is the place where you’ll be able to see the view of the
whole city. Although it’s crowded, the view is totally worth it! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2bIhyqF9nHV7OHDgWPGhstugRZ8AKYC14cuZsASvLDrKBCq6-mHBd7ZQo9EPJS6rQPHGjk2FWIHWnMD4PiOp3-pbhS6j9wbkt11Z7lgXF5WZWEildARKGyAgZ9Fi1A5wp5vUsLnieW30/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2bIhyqF9nHV7OHDgWPGhstugRZ8AKYC14cuZsASvLDrKBCq6-mHBd7ZQo9EPJS6rQPHGjk2FWIHWnMD4PiOp3-pbhS6j9wbkt11Z7lgXF5WZWEildARKGyAgZ9Fi1A5wp5vUsLnieW30/s400/11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCOuVffXeyIuZMjB-5apBvo8FAn-coT8Y12i54egFcOfs6frLskk9InCtpw2OkUGTdH_Wg_Lu0OqZbABrexw5jQEqdH3DR5zhUNGkNUSkiEBV2sTOvoXvAgS4TfZnfHGB2DLGMfjFxH9s/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCOuVffXeyIuZMjB-5apBvo8FAn-coT8Y12i54egFcOfs6frLskk9InCtpw2OkUGTdH_Wg_Lu0OqZbABrexw5jQEqdH3DR5zhUNGkNUSkiEBV2sTOvoXvAgS4TfZnfHGB2DLGMfjFxH9s/s400/12.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqhjC7gXuFPDSai_ZFpTLMjN47uQ1BKq1EGKPN5xzU6R8TWY8N-T5rVfw1q2bkpi033ywD-0YsXmgfwWR8B6rvcA-rdSjQXmSiko4htGp3j3n84z3LF89mR86ehRhgOIruYhX4rSFRKJA/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqhjC7gXuFPDSai_ZFpTLMjN47uQ1BKq1EGKPN5xzU6R8TWY8N-T5rVfw1q2bkpi033ywD-0YsXmgfwWR8B6rvcA-rdSjQXmSiko4htGp3j3n84z3LF89mR86ehRhgOIruYhX4rSFRKJA/s400/13.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;">While I was there, I really love the fact
that the city is small, allowing all the attractions on the main island to be within
walking distances. It took us only 15 minutes to walk from San Marco to <b><i>Rialto
Bridge</i></b> - the oldest bridge across the grand canal. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrEOINLR1dPkEdv8vYsPNMXvYtIEllSQH76rBxMGsvksua5ILr9jTXixqYqpYSwQxzSKck2nXK0E-k-wyNAPhm3qHZZkpI11lHRRP_ZhMgSjz-6LXSusIwc30ilq0nXwPBsjPKgJyjbSM/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrEOINLR1dPkEdv8vYsPNMXvYtIEllSQH76rBxMGsvksua5ILr9jTXixqYqpYSwQxzSKck2nXK0E-k-wyNAPhm3qHZZkpI11lHRRP_ZhMgSjz-6LXSusIwc30ilq0nXwPBsjPKgJyjbSM/s400/14.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTIEWMYqQUlTIW4Q5Kei6qbHYUf9On4i5-ZOvMQ99a8deUZmoovOplN1flExpZoS58xqf-wvy9DbbKcS-jIU_k3C_3UvU2H6-FWvB7VH2W3nS40jxifrQ2TI37oZLyvw8EOEpo9OyP2cA/s1600/15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTIEWMYqQUlTIW4Q5Kei6qbHYUf9On4i5-ZOvMQ99a8deUZmoovOplN1flExpZoS58xqf-wvy9DbbKcS-jIU_k3C_3UvU2H6-FWvB7VH2W3nS40jxifrQ2TI37oZLyvw8EOEpo9OyP2cA/s400/15.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The view of the grand canal from Rialto Bridge.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">One thing that you have got to buy while travelling around would be their gelatos! O</span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">n my way to
Rialto, there are (so many!) gelato shops selling for less than </span><b style="text-align: justify;">€</b><b style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white;">2</span></b><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><span style="background: white;">. Do try their</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"> mango
flavoured gelato, it's the <u>best</u>.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfiDO58p2yQhyqDAjkmx4HX0pHO0FXGl8NfsG-Y7CBu7sGwPRJEMMhc2ek7jnd2Sa2fMqrBnyqvbcFrzeDiKUeDjy3tUgqYFWjgk436yJ4gd6Tt2lblOIR4p0mRzwYhjFgzGC3LZJi8O4/s1600/16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfiDO58p2yQhyqDAjkmx4HX0pHO0FXGl8NfsG-Y7CBu7sGwPRJEMMhc2ek7jnd2Sa2fMqrBnyqvbcFrzeDiKUeDjy3tUgqYFWjgk436yJ4gd6Tt2lblOIR4p0mRzwYhjFgzGC3LZJi8O4/s400/16.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I cannot emphasize how nice this is.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>[Optional]</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Personally, although I have claimed that this was to be a cheap and budgeted trip, I really didn't want to leave Venice without trying their gondola service. This
service can be found along the small canals or the grand canal. The price of
this service has been </span>standardized<span style="font-family: inherit;"> throughout Venice at the following rates</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li>40 mins <span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white;">€80</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-GB" style="background: white;">60 mins </span>€120</li>
<li>80 mins €170 </li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'd recommend you to book your gondola ride online on <a href="https://www.viator.com/Venice-tours/Cruises-Sailing-and-Water-Tours/d522-g3?pref=02" target="_blank">Viator</a>, while you are planning the trip. It's much cheaper that way, saving you about <span style="background-color: white;">€</span>40! That's money that could possibly go into food and shopping. I purchased my trip at <span style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold;">€</span><b>42</b>, go figure!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
(Disclaimer: I am NOT getting paid in any way if you do book something on Viator. I'm purely sharing some tips with you.)</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmikzCK2tHQQnbAmE3G4P13fMhEJzI0ij7VHZe9SqbV6RMOR3KmYeRLKbJgyZQ-o7UXmi_cpy9GLjQbveX3CLBvotrgPwjeincV5Pvkvfds6R96QC8F2QrCIA0lOzq1QvKMPLwc6hNx4M/s1600/17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmikzCK2tHQQnbAmE3G4P13fMhEJzI0ij7VHZe9SqbV6RMOR3KmYeRLKbJgyZQ-o7UXmi_cpy9GLjQbveX3CLBvotrgPwjeincV5Pvkvfds6R96QC8F2QrCIA0lOzq1QvKMPLwc6hNx4M/s400/17.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">This is worth every penny!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Day 2: More Venice</span></span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;">On the second day, we bought the one day travel card (<b><span style="background: white;">€20 each) </span></b><span style="background: white;">and took the vaporetto from Ca’ D’Oro to
San Marco to change route towards <b><i>Burano Island</i></b>. The day card is especially good if you are considering travelling around a lot within the same day. Yay to savings!</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnr7Zv5rsDkPdhV0guBEWhxG4GxXLMCPt6MfZ8HBFEd8t1WAFxYylVU6Yrfiev-swXoCuMSZTVjlhanFLjITnHEQHwJH-RfoNAIraYZjptPsaSRBvsSYyPdFKHZetlAJ5wcrJJ70Osmvs/s1600/18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnr7Zv5rsDkPdhV0guBEWhxG4GxXLMCPt6MfZ8HBFEd8t1WAFxYylVU6Yrfiev-swXoCuMSZTVjlhanFLjITnHEQHwJH-RfoNAIraYZjptPsaSRBvsSYyPdFKHZetlAJ5wcrJJ70Osmvs/s400/18.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We took <b><i>Route 14</i></b>
from Piazza San Marco which passes Punta Sabbioni towards <b><i>Burano Island </i></b>where
the colourful buildings are. Many of the shops lined by the stream are actually</span></span> small boutique and souvenir shops where you can purchase gifts for yourself, family or friends. I'd like to warn you though, certain things aren't exactly cheap here, so don't be too shocked when you see the price tag.<br />
Otherwise, you can always just take a stroll, capture many pictures, and that's always free.<br />
<span lang="EN-GB"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhePvqLUuHzW8DELGSXbybAQa7JhMguaLEpwG9W0KIIJwYiVbu7wjvZ8y2188mqFXCwz7hMCWbs3Vu15E7ZkW_Sn5GrTHKmjtuTB8TlhFDifMKUgLZJDot4wB7k23SpoVuPOzevGsOZcG4/s1600/19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhePvqLUuHzW8DELGSXbybAQa7JhMguaLEpwG9W0KIIJwYiVbu7wjvZ8y2188mqFXCwz7hMCWbs3Vu15E7ZkW_Sn5GrTHKmjtuTB8TlhFDifMKUgLZJDot4wB7k23SpoVuPOzevGsOZcG4/s400/19.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrA3kFgkOPtp9u-E-XrTUsdyuZaLDckVLYJgSnrvzsscC7SfzVtOMq87J6AyU5ZB7sskDf8mREnHfIOiTiZSRFNM4ZrPgoYfi9v35su11AIkq5g008LoSfgHXAa_jl58MDbEbAB-TXrYM/s1600/20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrA3kFgkOPtp9u-E-XrTUsdyuZaLDckVLYJgSnrvzsscC7SfzVtOMq87J6AyU5ZB7sskDf8mREnHfIOiTiZSRFNM4ZrPgoYfi9v35su11AIkq5g008LoSfgHXAa_jl58MDbEbAB-TXrYM/s400/20.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_24" o:spid="_x0000_i1029"
type="#_x0000_t75" alt="../Pictures/Photos%20Library.photoslibrary/resources/proxies/derivatives/03/00/3ed/i1jTK0PWSxGxxZq%25cYiRvg_thumb_3ed.jpg"
style='width:467pt;height:312pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/meixii/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image037.jpg"
o:title="i1jTK0PWSxGxxZq%25cYiRvg_thumb_3ed"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-GB"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGmxFD4sgR6TzQRHSosbWl7QtMc8JLDGXEImPNpDNrlltSnIJoxbPOmuleBKM4GBrZE0plL7kLniXpq39LFD7l8RApFagYn2R1Fti_4fHgtD41_dFwexmMuIos6fKiNzsWvvAUa48d3bM/s1600/21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGmxFD4sgR6TzQRHSosbWl7QtMc8JLDGXEImPNpDNrlltSnIJoxbPOmuleBKM4GBrZE0plL7kLniXpq39LFD7l8RApFagYn2R1Fti_4fHgtD41_dFwexmMuIos6fKiNzsWvvAUa48d3bM/s400/21.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitL2sYclgvjeStrYP62e-T-EdcRXiEoOyZkjZ_gEoT1QfTgJEAAj4wmPi-80PIo0tyarTcvP5dG0vZOk78mmsk4qoaFEBmRGY28NnopnzY7UcL9OSmAuBC5OUuxveKZnQuyrqfxw_V8T0/s1600/22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitL2sYclgvjeStrYP62e-T-EdcRXiEoOyZkjZ_gEoT1QfTgJEAAj4wmPi-80PIo0tyarTcvP5dG0vZOk78mmsk4qoaFEBmRGY28NnopnzY7UcL9OSmAuBC5OUuxveKZnQuyrqfxw_V8T0/s400/22.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h1 style="background: white; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Back on the
main island, we went to try </span><i><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Dal Moro's - Fresh Pasta To Go</span></i><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12.0pt; font-weight: normal;"> located along one of the many small
alleys. Considering that the pasta is sold <i>to go</i>, you’ll have to stand around in, or outside the shop to enjoy your pasta. It's worth a try if you so happen to be here - fresh pasta, really tasty and friendly staff, what more could I ask for?</span></span></h1>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAWvxE-PeD8vDBlG4K9L28iCCxNyMhmsW11oUNZo8Db6FcOqFvoRlTU-QhjDRk225jPjHO8zvTo2qu0W05tdJn1IR-z_BMY_MGF8jaC8Uu76VWH7QZAmcDpSy7Cz4FMXszWNIx7OmmNgk/s1600/23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAWvxE-PeD8vDBlG4K9L28iCCxNyMhmsW11oUNZo8Db6FcOqFvoRlTU-QhjDRk225jPjHO8zvTo2qu0W05tdJn1IR-z_BMY_MGF8jaC8Uu76VWH7QZAmcDpSy7Cz4FMXszWNIx7OmmNgk/s400/23.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Our Aglio Olio and Bolognese di Pollo (€6)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h1 align="center" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #545454; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal;"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_28" o:spid="_x0000_i1025"
type="#_x0000_t75" alt="../Pictures/Photos%20Library.photoslibrary/resources/proxies/derivatives/04/00/427/di2v8%25R8QA26BqCX8Nyttw_thumb_427.jpg"
style='width:467pt;height:312pt;visibility:visible;mso-wrap-style:square'>
<v:imagedata src="file:///C:/Users/meixii/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image045.jpg"
o:title="di2v8%25R8QA26BqCX8Nyttw_thumb_427"/>
</v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #2c2c2c; font-size: 12.0pt; font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></h1>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<h3>
Cost Breakdown:</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz_y2K-PvkY2jEdm8xoMRPP2yRrfX_5kP_4fhqRqQXL8fbg4ytDmiwl09TapqZTfuxadr6ZmGfHpQ5PtN2VsMdFVL3f7IyGqwY6Etfxn07j4cjKBCY-L7ZTySmonO-aB5fEseRsGwYXjA/s1600/pietro-de-grandi-149555.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz_y2K-PvkY2jEdm8xoMRPP2yRrfX_5kP_4fhqRqQXL8fbg4ytDmiwl09TapqZTfuxadr6ZmGfHpQ5PtN2VsMdFVL3f7IyGqwY6Etfxn07j4cjKBCY-L7ZTySmonO-aB5fEseRsGwYXjA/s400/pietro-de-grandi-149555.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I have spent a total of <b><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="background: white;">€</span></span>213.5 </b>within my 2 days in Venice, and although this might still be expensive to some, there are certain activities described in this post that you can choose to opt out (for example, the Gondola ride). Considering that I had travelled to Venice during the holiday season, the accommodation was also on the pricier side. I had booked my accommodation on <a href="https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?cid=1778823&pcs=1&hl=en&hid=163196&checkin=2017-05-11&checkout=2017-05-12" target="_blank">Agoda</a>, in case you are wondering.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For an overview, this is the cost breakdown of my 2 day trip to Venice from Munich. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS8IeJ3GN7AmkFiuaAReh7q9bhUFbyDZqrq2Tw8ansMlbktn14YV6Q5rEjcCF7aS69Wb8sxYY-gOjsfHMJLDr4wMKra3P_21yA81WkRAiYhSR-AGrAYZHwMykv4ROA150w2LyG71ZN-f8/s1600/meta-chart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="417" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS8IeJ3GN7AmkFiuaAReh7q9bhUFbyDZqrq2Tw8ansMlbktn14YV6Q5rEjcCF7aS69Wb8sxYY-gOjsfHMJLDr4wMKra3P_21yA81WkRAiYhSR-AGrAYZHwMykv4ROA150w2LyG71ZN-f8/s640/meta-chart.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
----------------------------------------------</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-GB">All in all, I have really
enjoyed my time spent in Venice and I hope this post is of help for those who
are planning their trip there! For those who are interested in reading more of
such posts by me, leave a comment below, or you could leave a message on <a href="http://facebook.com/thiscache" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-GB">Thank you so much for
reading!</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here are the information that might be useful to you:</span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.italyguides.it/en/veneto/venice/interactive-map-of-venice#!/catid=36" target="_blank">Map of Venice</a></li>
<li><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: inherit; text-indent: -18pt;"><a href="http://europeforvisitors.com/venice/articles/vaporetto_routes2_table.htm" target="_blank">Vaporetto Route Information</a></span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: inherit; text-indent: -18pt;"><a href="http://www.actv.it/sites/default/files/xWeb_mappa%20linee%20di%20navigazione_03_NOVEMBRE_%202014%202.pdf" target="_blank">Map of Vaporetto Routes</a></span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: inherit; text-indent: -18pt;"><a href="http://europeforvisitors.com/venice/articles/venice-vaporetto-and-bus-fare-tables.htm" target="_blank">Vaporetto Fares</a></span></li>
<li><a href="https://www.viator.com/Venice-tours/Cruises-Sailing-and-Water-Tours/d522-g3?pref=02" target="_blank">Gondola Ride and Tours</a></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-11750416679973398022017-05-04T12:00:00.000+08:002017-05-04T16:11:57.030+08:00Top 5 Favourite DIY Craft Blogs<script async="" data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-save="true" data-pin-tall="true" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5dKKPnFmbrTJZqcAADc7PP7rNdTTa9Kl2Mtje2yibL0TnYE6Qqc3InCZ4naQreW3TMvPSTPH1_rM8DThCxUB8LgxTLNjBf18mN3t7DLKyA5ygNAXG8ltB3Y8UxV-ojvA7cqXx5VW9gA4/s1600/IMG_9164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5dKKPnFmbrTJZqcAADc7PP7rNdTTa9Kl2Mtje2yibL0TnYE6Qqc3InCZ4naQreW3TMvPSTPH1_rM8DThCxUB8LgxTLNjBf18mN3t7DLKyA5ygNAXG8ltB3Y8UxV-ojvA7cqXx5VW9gA4/s400/IMG_9164.JPG" width="281" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Creativity has no limits and there can never be too many bloggers to follow or be inspired by. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Here in this post I would like to share with you, in no particular order my 5 favourite do-it-yourself blogs, and more about what they do. When life is short, keep calm and craft ;)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Ps: This is NOT a sponsored post. I'm purely just a huge fan.</span></div>
<b></b><br />
<div>
<b><b><br /></b></b></div>
<b>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.brit.co/" target="_blank">Brit + Co</a></span></b><span class="fullpost" style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-jjuvfnCYW-JLjmN2qPWMIaqADz8yUnW5VWvaA00u6ujNdm38dk4zaXK7JwvpFdPC6ZFTmeFolO2AbflrMIGi8tY4zIzVHIIDAKikFSHH14aDKlE5XHRByieGGxKd_rG7w4DQghyphenhyphenXPto/s1600/BritCo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-jjuvfnCYW-JLjmN2qPWMIaqADz8yUnW5VWvaA00u6ujNdm38dk4zaXK7JwvpFdPC6ZFTmeFolO2AbflrMIGi8tY4zIzVHIIDAKikFSHH14aDKlE5XHRByieGGxKd_rG7w4DQghyphenhyphenXPto/s400/BritCo.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Brit + Co is a San Francisco-based company that provides information from beauty and fashion to brush lettering, diy and even the latest news. Their website is easy to navigate and the visuals never fail to impress. It's basically a single website that covers many topics that the internet-savvy female may be interested in.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://apairandasparediy.com/" target="_blank">A Pair & A Spare DIY</a></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyY2atEg_DyWTXFoW_Ssp1siyCDLPw59zRRuXc53hsl9ivNNYF7A3ZRkHux8HS0uruNQvrHFeDD7r-P18uR7DTHU-V4q-j8ntzgHmIYE6jeWybV909HFNztpzBfE0kiBED3bt2kqNMw5w/s1600/BritCo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyY2atEg_DyWTXFoW_Ssp1siyCDLPw59zRRuXc53hsl9ivNNYF7A3ZRkHux8HS0uruNQvrHFeDD7r-P18uR7DTHU-V4q-j8ntzgHmIYE6jeWybV909HFNztpzBfE0kiBED3bt2kqNMw5w/s400/BritCo.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I've followed A Pair & A Spare for many years; ever since it's beginnings as a regular journal for Geneva's DIY projects. Fast forward many years, the website now features creative content in all areas of life. The amazing thing about the posts by Geneva is how beautifully effortless her fashion sense and life style appears to be. It gives us - the regular people - hope that we can also achieve what she has done in her life.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="https://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">How About Orange</a></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjztf9BCMkqLnzcdzU42rE4wYWXAelIxW4I8MKt0EVZHryYrh0RnxGpAmXcIQXjGrQ5LofqvcAbpPWmcZDODoelsfyS6B8PtiC84ckHJX8KA4PCOnPHDvcfg7ZSgG5AI1AsJprLxxZu8-I/s1600/BritCo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjztf9BCMkqLnzcdzU42rE4wYWXAelIxW4I8MKt0EVZHryYrh0RnxGpAmXcIQXjGrQ5LofqvcAbpPWmcZDODoelsfyS6B8PtiC84ckHJX8KA4PCOnPHDvcfg7ZSgG5AI1AsJprLxxZu8-I/s400/BritCo.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jessica Jones was one of my top favourite bloggers since a long time ago, thanks to her adorable DIY tutorials and lovely photos (it captures my attention, and is easy on the eye). Unfortunately, she has long stopped running her blog... but at least, the posts are still around for all to read and see. You may still view her blog for inspiration, and its worth a visit if you do not mind reading old content.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/" target="_blank">Young House Love</a></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirgr2VEY5i04IX15AvPMX4YOjHEH-pPtNeqK7zZY70Yb5dVIEH5om9111uiMVFXLC5qGhjgO2SmRN_nxXW7fx3SUavF1NmVyEl3Axi-oiqzYFQJgeK1DVPlmaOtVOKRelPjxXdNvNi95o/s1600/BritCo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirgr2VEY5i04IX15AvPMX4YOjHEH-pPtNeqK7zZY70Yb5dVIEH5om9111uiMVFXLC5qGhjgO2SmRN_nxXW7fx3SUavF1NmVyEl3Axi-oiqzYFQJgeK1DVPlmaOtVOKRelPjxXdNvNi95o/s400/BritCo.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Young House Love is written by John & Sherry. This blog focuses a lot on home-related projects and I am totally in love with their designs and creations. They have super cute ideas for the young couples getting their first home, or for the old couples looking to revamp their humble abode. It's also really cool when they aren't afraid to admit when projects have gone wrong. As far as home DIY goes, you wouldn't want to miss out on this couple.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><a href="http://studiodiy.com/category/diy/" target="_blank">Studio DIY</a></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKwI40oU9awqFjxbZBs9OGNTYrjGHfEgyvUtss-waTIHZhqxxQMaewux-3b1YLyGuh8RkJf-MtZhfKL8Zv5mhLE9Bt5wtsQGSk1RhscNJNErddw_4wX2zPq0LUCMqWQM_saNtitMm_Hwo/s1600/studiodiy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKwI40oU9awqFjxbZBs9OGNTYrjGHfEgyvUtss-waTIHZhqxxQMaewux-3b1YLyGuh8RkJf-MtZhfKL8Zv5mhLE9Bt5wtsQGSk1RhscNJNErddw_4wX2zPq0LUCMqWQM_saNtitMm_Hwo/s400/studiodiy.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Studio DIY is among my favourite DIY blogs online, and its largely due to the energy that seems to radiate from Kelly - the founder. Take a quick look at the webpage, and you'll realise that they aren't afraid of using colour, or quirky ideas! The team behind Studio DIY seem to be always filled with happiness and they aren't afraid to share it. Go on, and click on the link. You might just need that splash of colour in your life.</span></div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-17394351628205370532017-05-01T12:00:00.000+08:002017-05-01T16:10:18.394+08:0010 Reasons Why You Should Drink Lemon Water<script async="" data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-save="true" data-pin-tall="true" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>
You might be wondering, what's the hype about lemon water and you’ve probably read one of those articles where a beautiful celebrity talks about how she keeps herself looking gorgeous and slim. If you have noticed, most of them mentioned, or swear by drinking warm lemon water every morning. After some reading and digging, it appears that the lemon water does a lot for our health and body!<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhepQkz2W_Wf4msQLyMke3vwQoxpF7iq3BBisiJG3no881ztsRyRYMGdh464RIO4TMRXb_Q8m1NZ1i5lqn-epXh3HURyms76-_uresq3cgqokteJqPqwvgV5Jmqe8mRBQVB_fLJYCTCxWg/s1600/anda-ambrosini-36096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhepQkz2W_Wf4msQLyMke3vwQoxpF7iq3BBisiJG3no881ztsRyRYMGdh464RIO4TMRXb_Q8m1NZ1i5lqn-epXh3HURyms76-_uresq3cgqokteJqPqwvgV5Jmqe8mRBQVB_fLJYCTCxWg/s320/anda-ambrosini-36096.jpg" width="251" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1. Beauty is Skin Deep</h3>
<div>
As most of us would know, lemons along with other citrus fruits, contain vitamin C. To maintain that smooth healthy skin, vitamin C is important in our diet as it plays an important role in collagen synthesis, and cell repair.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
On top of that, warm lemon water has astringent properties, which could help to heal scars from past blemishes. Previously when I visited my dermatologist, she recommended me to use a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00G2TQNZ4?ie=UTF8&tag=thiscache-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B00G2TQNZ4" target="_blank">vitamin C serum</a> as part of my daily skin care routine. This was to be applied as a first layer, before the use of any other creams.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00G2TQNZ4?ie=UTF8&tag=thiscache-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B00G2TQNZ4" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00G2TQNZ4?ie=UTF8&tag=thiscache-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B00G2TQNZ4" border="0" height="200" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0619/6133/products/Vitamin_C_Serum.jpg?v=1459063646" width="200" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
2. Immunity Boost</h3>
<div>
Vitamin C is one of the safest and most effective nutrients, many experts say. Although it may not be the cure for the common cold (though it's thought to help prevent more serious complications), its has been found to effectively protect against immune system deficiencies.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Just how much vitamin C I need, you might ask?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The safe upper limit for vitamin C is 2,000 milligrams a day, and there has been strong evidence that taking 500 milligrams daily is already sufficient.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
3. Aids Digestion</h3>
<div>
<div>
The biggest benefit from drinking warm lemon water in the morning may be from the temperature of the water. Simply by drinking water first thing in the morning (even plain water), you'll help flush the digestive system and rehydrate the body. This is especially important since you haven't been drinking any water throughout your 8 hours of sleep. </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Additionally, thanks to the citric acid contained in lemon, the acid interacts with various enzymes in your body and stimulates the secretion of gastric juice.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhuukk76i_VFJLrrdJuLtW8DKuhZF9yQbwM8BNTo9Ft70yIjXIrGwvSsLuFz4XRpP6tJhZ4mOBVdwZ7dgx0H81JzYnnU0LnI_KAeSI3yf0kUGVI4QXmU1SiDmjHZgXvfASzjGsVb8DKx0/s1600/pexels-photo-316891.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhuukk76i_VFJLrrdJuLtW8DKuhZF9yQbwM8BNTo9Ft70yIjXIrGwvSsLuFz4XRpP6tJhZ4mOBVdwZ7dgx0H81JzYnnU0LnI_KAeSI3yf0kUGVI4QXmU1SiDmjHZgXvfASzjGsVb8DKx0/s320/pexels-photo-316891.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4. Source of Potassium</h3>
<div>
<div>
If you didn't already know, lemons are high in potassium, which is good for heart health, as well as brain and nerve function. However, having said that, Bananas are also high in potassium, for that matter.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
5. Weight Loss</h3>
<div>
<div>
There has been evidence found that drinking lemon water, first thing in the morning would help you maintain a healthy weight. Researchers in Germany found that drinking enough water increased metabolism:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>After drinking approximately 17 ounces of water, the subjects’ metabolic rates — or the rate at which calories are burned — increased by 30% for both men and women. The increases occurred within 10 minutes of water consumption and reached a maximum after about 30 to 40 minutes.(source)</i></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You might however want to note that lemon water isn't a miracle weight loss solution. But with other healthy eating and living habits, maintaining your body and health would not be a problem.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
6. Freshens your Breath</h3>
<div>
Did you know that drinking lemon water also helps relieve toothaches and gingivitis? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
However for that, it is not recommened that you brush your teeth after drinking lemon water as the citric acid can erode tooth enamel. You might want to consider holding off on brushing your teeth after drinking lemon water, or you could always brush your teeth before drinking it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVk9ylfEa8nJF5fJEU3jqUxGMWkbtSFHu7Vp0EytNX4XqeFjZTC4UEcpLgUUZH3FFxdp46MptXSJYWUFhEeExjFprJWqTgdOSN1T73CH0ZZVhnffvXoKLUSRofC9qSOwF9DWc130JTHWc/s1600/StockSnap_772AB45D4D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVk9ylfEa8nJF5fJEU3jqUxGMWkbtSFHu7Vp0EytNX4XqeFjZTC4UEcpLgUUZH3FFxdp46MptXSJYWUFhEeExjFprJWqTgdOSN1T73CH0ZZVhnffvXoKLUSRofC9qSOwF9DWc130JTHWc/s320/StockSnap_772AB45D4D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
7. Energy Boost</h3>
<div>
Lemon juice helps reduce anxiety and depression, and also provides your body with energy when it enters your digestive tract! It had been found that the scent of lemons has a calming effect on your nervous system. Great to start off the day!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
8. Caffeine Replacement</h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">For those who aren't new to that afternoon crash, you might want to consider replacing your morning coffee with a cup of hot lemon water. </span>Some has taken up the challenge and reported great benefits. Feeling refreshed without having to deal with that pesky afternoon headache. Plus, its better on the nerves too.<br />
<br />
For that lazy morning routine check out this cute <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001AT4QMI?ie=UTF8&tag=thiscache-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B001AT4QMI" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Fish Lemon Squeezer</a>. It makes your morning lemon squeezing that much easier and cuter.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001AT4QMI?ie=UTF8&tag=thiscache-20&camp=1789&linkCode=xm2&creativeASIN=B001AT4QMI" target="_blank"><img alt="Fox Run Fish Lemon Squeezer" border="0" height="114" src="data:image/webp;base64,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" width="200" /></a><span id="goog_1639454529"></span><span id="goog_1639454530"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
9. Helps Prevent Kidney Stones</h3>
<div>
<div>
The citric acid in lemons may potentially help prevent the formation of calcium kidney stones. The UW Health recommends increasing citric acid intake to decrease the risk of getting kidney stones. Drinking lemon water not only helps you get more citric acid, but also the water you need to prevent stones.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Having 1/2 cup of lemon juice provides the same amount of citric acid you’d find in prescription varieties.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
10. Hydration</h3>
<div>
<div>
For those who doesn't like the taste of water, lemon water is a great alternative. If the addition of lemon encourages you and helps you drink more water, why not?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
According to the Food and Nutrition Board, the dietary reference intake for water is 91 to 125 ounces (that's 2.7 - 3.7 litres). This includes water from food and drinks.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
----------------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
Research shows that lemon water has potential health benefits. Though more studies may be required to fully prove it's benefits, adding lemon to your water may help you drink more throughout the day to help you stay hydrated, which is critical to good health.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
So stay hydrated and keep drinking!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">meixii</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<span class="fullpost">
</span>meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-3653508943871390052017-04-27T12:00:00.000+08:002017-05-08T12:32:12.870+08:00Mother's Day 2017 Free Printable Cards<script async="" data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-save="true" data-pin-tall="true" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>
<br />
<div class="vk_bk vk_ans" style="background-color: white; color: rgb(33, 33, 33) !important; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: xx-large !important; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 5px;">
<div style="display: inline-block;">
Sunday,</div>
<div style="display: inline-block;">
14 May</div>
</div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #878787; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Mother's Day 2017 in United States of America</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #878787; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
Mother's Day is up and coming. It's the one appointed day of the year to honor your mum — and all that she does — by showing her how much you appreciate her. From tending to and caring for even the smallest of scrapes (<i>Hey mum, I can't find my socks!</i>) to magically knowing the perfect cure for everything, your mum has been there for you every step of the way.<br />
<br />
While it is only natural that you appreciate your mum everyday, Mother's Day is the day of the year to be explicit about it, to show just how grateful you are to have her. On this day of appreciation, little tokens of appreciation go just as far as the grandest of gestures.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjhE-sEDfPmRLepwpZpExdkjexE5KPVg90ifJkjksMF45gDdJs1Haz615ZxwT25MxpIkuGXcHE12MliV8g87_PhqURt6f7rVqxWAXPGJxmoNYsO42d7wdtuda1FmanHicrrZItl0GaRcc/s1600/leonardo-wong-57700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjhE-sEDfPmRLepwpZpExdkjexE5KPVg90ifJkjksMF45gDdJs1Haz615ZxwT25MxpIkuGXcHE12MliV8g87_PhqURt6f7rVqxWAXPGJxmoNYsO42d7wdtuda1FmanHicrrZItl0GaRcc/s400/leonardo-wong-57700.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">To commemorate all mothers out there, I've decided to provide you with these free watercolour card printables! I've hand painted each and every one of these cards with love and lots of effort, so feel free to download/save/print them for that mother figure in your life.</span></div>
<br />
I have provided the details and size of the card which I have originally painted the flowers on. However, you may choose to scale the cards to your desired dimensions.<br />
<br />
Alternatively, you can choose to cut out your cards after printing with the use of an <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005KRSWM6/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B005KRSWM6&linkCode=as2&tag=thiscache-20&linkId=1b35e67ed2b0d0b76ed5ab45486183f0" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">X-ACTO Knife</a>. Honestly, I swear by this tool. It's super sharp, and with a good ruler in hand, your lines are perfectly straight. It's a must to have.<br />
At the same time, I'd like to remind and warn all users to be very very careful when handling the knife. I've personally injure myself while using the knife and it was quite a messy incident.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-_QGILsTMjYyThyphenhyphenMKAKt0RVVpWMyvbIHaQVhiN1K0SB7zdiKHbo_S7ybR5SRx7UbaPiH931dsJJriIXYBKe76vseCU65Dlhhj4G2_X4w8djROytHURxFFILsUd6suLdV-cR3iCRYxCA/s1600/Card+1.2_small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-_QGILsTMjYyThyphenhyphenMKAKt0RVVpWMyvbIHaQVhiN1K0SB7zdiKHbo_S7ybR5SRx7UbaPiH931dsJJriIXYBKe76vseCU65Dlhhj4G2_X4w8djROytHURxFFILsUd6suLdV-cR3iCRYxCA/s400/Card+1.2_small.jpg" width="281" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/ix5xq0xr1nolgif/Card%201.2_small.jpg?dl=0" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Download here</span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Size: A5</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn8KDBaDSUxViMJASb2ZSsBPCAVwMrxdk5I6R1aAQwH8rCHQwLRR9tZyhgm-g5uv7atnT5s-p_ZeII9Yhw5cVhciOLaTpKlw6QYcSt0GLHJZ95fxg5W5kXqud2kkW-3qhmpTdO3Gb0mxo/s1600/Card+2.2_small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn8KDBaDSUxViMJASb2ZSsBPCAVwMrxdk5I6R1aAQwH8rCHQwLRR9tZyhgm-g5uv7atnT5s-p_ZeII9Yhw5cVhciOLaTpKlw6QYcSt0GLHJZ95fxg5W5kXqud2kkW-3qhmpTdO3Gb0mxo/s400/Card+2.2_small.jpg" width="281" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/02deymv2655viw9/Card%202.2_small.jpg?dl=0" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Download here</span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Size: A5</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG46GVDWYRV1BeHXiUzo_fnDrvq_dGeVaD-Rfhcnjw_wxf58EHMtcjqyviAVZMW_NaWgvlVBIdE4bk2GVr2rAjLe0TqIj0bMyrqE8a6yI4jTKlSvl4OppfY8KBauNArN1kCOPnNAQgQa0/s1600/Card+3.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG46GVDWYRV1BeHXiUzo_fnDrvq_dGeVaD-Rfhcnjw_wxf58EHMtcjqyviAVZMW_NaWgvlVBIdE4bk2GVr2rAjLe0TqIj0bMyrqE8a6yI4jTKlSvl4OppfY8KBauNArN1kCOPnNAQgQa0/s320/Card+3.2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/wovg5uzmfdmhotx/Card%203.2.jpg?dl=0" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Download here</span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Size: Square, 12.5cm x 12.5cm</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0qXr__SldMOT9Aqh9vuAEGDdOhKM5fI6MJNNyqMce4iFqwplUbbbTIJUlQJSrJdjUsgn-Eh-lI71g_uOgj2uXfRwWop5QFMAPCPjF_K1vO2S01cmO9jd-22CGH8t2DlvLhYMqGELe-gQ/s1600/Card+4.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0qXr__SldMOT9Aqh9vuAEGDdOhKM5fI6MJNNyqMce4iFqwplUbbbTIJUlQJSrJdjUsgn-Eh-lI71g_uOgj2uXfRwWop5QFMAPCPjF_K1vO2S01cmO9jd-22CGH8t2DlvLhYMqGELe-gQ/s320/Card+4.2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/tlrlnmv05d2ahjs/Card%204.2.jpg?dl=0" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Download here</span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Size: Square, 12.5cm x 12.5cm</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Show your mother you care this coming Mother's Day with these cards. I'm sure your mother would really appreciate such heartfelt messages from you.<br />
And for those who would like to write their own heartfelt messages to their mothers, consider calligraphy! I have a short guide for those interested <a href="https://thiscache.blogspot.sg/2017/04/a-guide-to-modern-calligraphy-for_20.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
And to the mothers out there, thank you for all the love, Happy Mother's Day!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">meixii</span></div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-15692115079174481462017-04-20T12:02:00.001+08:002017-05-11T16:06:36.106+08:00A Guide to Modern Calligraphy for Beginners<div style="text-align: justify;">
<script async="" data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-save="true" data-pin-tall="true" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script><span style="background-color: white; font-size: x-small;">(Note that this post contains affiliate links to a product. It is something that I personally use, support and would recommend without an affiliate link.)</span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs_0UJULjwnExuYxTiJuUw5j93ifZjsjsGYNubLGwETspPPjKNgDhxeWCpHYrs3BGJmfw68Vhyphenhyphen7CagVbx3oXm6Ee3r94Z1kqFJcpf83FkZkgXPyeiAWBAjV7oXlooCZp4tGoyjzxC-kYQ/s1600/IMG_9130_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs_0UJULjwnExuYxTiJuUw5j93ifZjsjsGYNubLGwETspPPjKNgDhxeWCpHYrs3BGJmfw68Vhyphenhyphen7CagVbx3oXm6Ee3r94Z1kqFJcpf83FkZkgXPyeiAWBAjV7oXlooCZp4tGoyjzxC-kYQ/s400/IMG_9130_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Modern calligraphy is gaining popularity these days, and I think it largely due to social media. There is an increase in awareness and/or pride with regards to beautiful hand lettering.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
If you want to learn modern calligraphy, but have no idea how or what you need to get started, then this post is just for you. I’ll help and advise you which supplies to buy, how to use the pens, and how to practice your handwriting. After all, good handwriting doesn't come naturally in this new age of smartphones and laptops.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyR7xm97z8HE1DbHrhOqxiii4vDLj6TjUVYwDPTdU1ghfVZwsx7wVwbhkMR0lAKkvWfWxzVZcAVoZI6iM4rkCdltxIvMpnKnlj_KstSx4rVPxCecUeybDl9ENCCSyQw380Y_00wGYobmY/s1600/IMG_9115_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyR7xm97z8HE1DbHrhOqxiii4vDLj6TjUVYwDPTdU1ghfVZwsx7wVwbhkMR0lAKkvWfWxzVZcAVoZI6iM4rkCdltxIvMpnKnlj_KstSx4rVPxCecUeybDl9ENCCSyQw380Y_00wGYobmY/s400/IMG_9115_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<h4 style="clear: both;">
<b>1. Assemble your own calligraphy starter set</b></h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg60A2pfbU-Q9G5DPQxuD21rElWFa0zqbicAJE-Mbd8A9L0ZKOSMpAcbterUz6hLL2biACgF5AeJp4AIgOFs0FsKvea0UHxgWg8Y_mQD2GJYhoxZ_PgfIXMl8HXQiDAZdt2XN4qss7lb6Q/s1600/IMG_9113_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg60A2pfbU-Q9G5DPQxuD21rElWFa0zqbicAJE-Mbd8A9L0ZKOSMpAcbterUz6hLL2biACgF5AeJp4AIgOFs0FsKvea0UHxgWg8Y_mQD2GJYhoxZ_PgfIXMl8HXQiDAZdt2XN4qss7lb6Q/s400/IMG_9113_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Generally, these are the things you need to have on hand:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>Nibs – Personally, I like using the <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0048H9C1Y/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0048H9C1Y&linkCode=as2&tag=thiscache-20&linkId=629b2b086b80cd050099f9c6061b6c5d" target="_blank">Brause EF66</a></b> or the <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004HE78RS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B004HE78RS&linkCode=as2&tag=thiscache-20&linkId=8a5246d4d137558895b6fbc40262490d" target="_blank">Brause Rose</a></b> Nib. I'll further explain and talk about the choice of nibs in the later part of this post. (To tell nibs apart, look at the etching on the barrel of the nib.)</li>
<li>Pen – There are generally 3 different kinds of pens you can possibly purchase. I often use Manuscript pens, which feature a universal insert. For beginners, it often recommended that you get a straight pen.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000099O2W/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000099O2W&linkCode=as2&tag=thiscache-20&linkId=24a3459415cc7921b203dc06b610deaf" target="_blank">32# laserjet paper</a> – It's affordably priced and prevents ink feathering/bleeding.</li>
<li>Ink, plus a container to store the ink in. – You may choose to use Sumi or India inks. These are good opaque inks that runs smoothly.</li>
<li>Water – Use any old cup and fill it with water to clean your nib in. However, make sure to dry the nibs after to prevent rusting.</li>
<li>Non-fibrous cloth or paper towel – This is to dry your nibs, but watch out for fibers getting stuck.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I would recommend that you put together your kit rather than purchase a pre-assembled one. More often than not, pre-assembled kits are packaged with cheap supplies, and they tend to be overpriced.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h4 style="clear: both;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2. Pen selection process</span></span></h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #333333;">When you are first starting out on modern calligraphy, it isn't surprising that you source for the cheapest materials that you can find. That also means that many of us would end up buying the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BYQLT4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000BYQLT4&linkCode=as2&tag=thiscache-20&linkId=fa3f220754406c749522bed90923c5fc" target="_blank">Spe</a></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BYQLT4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000BYQLT4&linkCode=as2&tag=thiscache-20&linkId=fa3f220754406c749522bed90923c5fc" target="_blank">edball straight plastic pen</a>, which would often have a fixed nib insert. </span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-_JfF7MRMfpESGzG_E_crowJHKKw4VehdivF0VSBHMhSL4ICjK300bo6a4f7M4wLs6f6oxzW8fA9F9u4O5GsHT7u0iqgdNQJXOvIpJp-5eAC_36Cdzx4V7Gw433kvZPF-91Fi-5hEEVw/s1600/IMG_9119_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-_JfF7MRMfpESGzG_E_crowJHKKw4VehdivF0VSBHMhSL4ICjK300bo6a4f7M4wLs6f6oxzW8fA9F9u4O5GsHT7u0iqgdNQJXOvIpJp-5eAC_36Cdzx4V7Gw433kvZPF-91Fi-5hEEVw/s400/IMG_9119_2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Only nibs in certain shapes can fit snugly.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Although I do agree that you shouldn't start off with a pricey pen that might end up as a white elephant, I do recommend purchasing mid-ranged</span><span style="color: #333333;"> dip pen with a universal insert. </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">A universal insert has four metal prongs and a rim; as seen in the photo below. A universal insert will be able to accommodate a variety of different nibs - which would be inserted between the prongs and </span><span style="color: #333333;">the rim (highlighted in pink). </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQshJM1-YfGvktPW_Kcvttwxokm5cQbIVBbHezcpt3gODr9x1hqdfEUzx2mUjmvKVyOn5DPSJPd2nc736o5qogtG8SoeKqzE1P9aUVYs6974Iiw8soY2r45CrpFi0txD2Zlck7FsOQ_Rk/s1600/IMG_9117_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQshJM1-YfGvktPW_Kcvttwxokm5cQbIVBbHezcpt3gODr9x1hqdfEUzx2mUjmvKVyOn5DPSJPd2nc736o5qogtG8SoeKqzE1P9aUVYs6974Iiw8soY2r45CrpFi0txD2Zlck7FsOQ_Rk/s400/IMG_9117_2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlA0z0YKNbyxGRum_G0LL5wPwFFa5Rzp5EbuDA1UwkVS3K4EBuIWX3vcdYEhY4LV4JXhbeFE70OK-zbY8IkHKucGAGwO2K76oZ2ikcf7WuHj1iEQ1MffN0Zp1zyD0TaaMfW5RbJceW-m8/s1600/IMG_9118_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlA0z0YKNbyxGRum_G0LL5wPwFFa5Rzp5EbuDA1UwkVS3K4EBuIWX3vcdYEhY4LV4JXhbeFE70OK-zbY8IkHKucGAGwO2K76oZ2ikcf7WuHj1iEQ1MffN0Zp1zyD0TaaMfW5RbJceW-m8/s400/IMG_9118_2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">The nib should be secured well and not wobble about.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">I personally like using </span><span style="color: #333333;">cork grip pens because they have a universal insert and are comfortable to use.</span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqL3sYqJjaDRsSyBjZuSrB1_QUiqS4_kmIgAd5oGrRZMtqC8E_ek5c_dk5RJyciSUgNomZt0JwoBNyXcKayIZFEtVx2AH0LJB4HwLOZi-S_Wa-8Fbsg8yvZm2lB3QLzCSlaVgk-i5RyP4/s1600/IMG_9116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqL3sYqJjaDRsSyBjZuSrB1_QUiqS4_kmIgAd5oGrRZMtqC8E_ek5c_dk5RJyciSUgNomZt0JwoBNyXcKayIZFEtVx2AH0LJB4HwLOZi-S_Wa-8Fbsg8yvZm2lB3QLzCSlaVgk-i5RyP4/s400/IMG_9116.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">My cork grip straight pen.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="color: #333333;">Alternatively, you might also have heard of many calligraphers that are absolutely in love with using oblique calligraphy pens. Once again, the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003IGK0GC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B003IGK0GC&linkCode=as2&tag=thiscache-20&linkId=9405279d84e49c13e014d6c62a299f3a" target="_blank">Speedball oblique pen</a> is one of the most popular on the market because it’s cost-effective and easily accessible.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrdEbFWxVNPcqg47hHrXHayIJAMuyn_NDRUpAnZH5OJw_f5PDzcvytax3BKxaDfsLCgbq2_TRpqn1HNtQaSLOZedYnohID4_Y1MVKljpHIZoHQJM-8WoqoEdGR6KsJM1C610Dmz3ivzwc/s1600/IMG_9112_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrdEbFWxVNPcqg47hHrXHayIJAMuyn_NDRUpAnZH5OJw_f5PDzcvytax3BKxaDfsLCgbq2_TRpqn1HNtQaSLOZedYnohID4_Y1MVKljpHIZoHQJM-8WoqoEdGR6KsJM1C610Dmz3ivzwc/s400/IMG_9112_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Why oblique? You might ask. What's unique about these pens is the protruding flange that angles your nib, which would help you write leaning-styled calligraphy. This can be tough to achieve if you are using a straight holder.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyR7xm97z8HE1DbHrhOqxiii4vDLj6TjUVYwDPTdU1ghfVZwsx7wVwbhkMR0lAKkvWfWxzVZcAVoZI6iM4rkCdltxIvMpnKnlj_KstSx4rVPxCecUeybDl9ENCCSyQw380Y_00wGYobmY/s1600/IMG_9115_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyR7xm97z8HE1DbHrhOqxiii4vDLj6TjUVYwDPTdU1ghfVZwsx7wVwbhkMR0lAKkvWfWxzVZcAVoZI6iM4rkCdltxIvMpnKnlj_KstSx4rVPxCecUeybDl9ENCCSyQw380Y_00wGYobmY/s400/IMG_9115_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Top to bottom: Oblique, Straight universal holder, and Straight fixed holder.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
It would be safe to say that oblique pens were developed with the best user experience in mind. Although it is also possible to use a straight pen for the same results, using an oblique pen allows you to maintain your regular posture when writing slanted calligraphy. It's definitely not a must to have, but it would be a good addition to your calligraphy collection.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<h4 style="clear: both;">
3. Choosing your nibs</h4>
<div>
As previously mentioned, I really enjoy using the <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0048H9C1Y/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0048H9C1Y&linkCode=as2&tag=thiscache-20&linkId=629b2b086b80cd050099f9c6061b6c5d" target="_blank">Brause EF66</a></b> and <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004HE78RS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B004HE78RS&linkCode=as2&tag=thiscache-20&linkId=8a5246d4d137558895b6fbc40262490d" target="_blank">Brause Rose</a></b> Nibs for my writing. However, one should note that these two nibs are rather flexible, and may not be recommended for the heavy handed.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you have read the guides from other bloggers, they often recommend the use of <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006CQW428/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B006CQW428&linkCode=as2&tag=thiscache-20&linkId=cc991ce33b08d2ced4e679c6c05865b0" target="_blank">Nikko G</a></b> nibs for beginners. I personally did not have the chance to try out that nib, and so it would not be fair of me to discuss about its functionality. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In my case, the first nib I bought was the <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000UF274C/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000UF274C&linkCode=as2&tag=thiscache-20&linkId=bb0091e3c037d51ebf5b01facecad738" target="_blank">Nikko No. 5 - School Model</a> </b>which I bought at a local art store in Singapore (Art Friend, anyone?). The nib is stiff and is good for everyday writing, although it doesn't produce very distinctive or fancy looking downward strokes. I later learnt that this nib is often used in manga publications (Japanese comics).</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5ahGx4KOH3kmVGDvZAzxSFDx7H1Ewq_rOxxBP26OxA2NdexT0ZB_k9qdLy4N3TeKGGKXi0wPH-_wBmdekGfomJpbDpGK0AUxBCw09aBWiR-hJ0pgSvDUij3g__Mu_FuIAYb-lsUVC1M/s1600/IMG_9125_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5ahGx4KOH3kmVGDvZAzxSFDx7H1Ewq_rOxxBP26OxA2NdexT0ZB_k9qdLy4N3TeKGGKXi0wPH-_wBmdekGfomJpbDpGK0AUxBCw09aBWiR-hJ0pgSvDUij3g__Mu_FuIAYb-lsUVC1M/s400/IMG_9125_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">My small collection of nibs.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There are a wide variety of nibs available for purchase and very often, the choice of nib used depends largely on the user, and the purpose of the writing. For instance, in everyday use it's not often that people choose to use the flexible nibs due to the level of grip and control required over the pen. The pen also often runs dry, and more dipping is required. Picture doing that for a 3-page essay!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h4>
4. Assembling and using your pen</h4>
<div>
Earlier in <i style="font-weight: bold;">part 2</i>, I described the procedure to fit a nib into a straight pen with a universal holder. In this section, I would like to focus more on the use of a oblique pen.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
First of all, when fitting the nib onto the holder, you would want to make sure that the tip of the nib is just at the mid line of the pen which will help you achieve that nice, right-leaning angle. You'll see what I mean with this photo below.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG-6bUzn3c_qKUsGLhUWQmZzOhiFG72l5q9fyFBaYJBRvaph8VFoA8MHWceuDF3Z31UohX-eZ0oNXpfn6rEKIPng545wUjwbWuU-VT5NxxdF_LE6Oxqq-rDurmn8kVtXG4Lt0Eo2Ske-E/s1600/IMG_9128_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG-6bUzn3c_qKUsGLhUWQmZzOhiFG72l5q9fyFBaYJBRvaph8VFoA8MHWceuDF3Z31UohX-eZ0oNXpfn6rEKIPng545wUjwbWuU-VT5NxxdF_LE6Oxqq-rDurmn8kVtXG4Lt0Eo2Ske-E/s400/IMG_9128_2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Ensuring that the tip of the nib meets the mid line of the pen.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Following that, when using the pen you should only dip the nib right to the point just above the vent hole (the hole in the center of the nib). Go any further than that, and you’ll probably have too much ink on your nib, causing a mini ink pool on your paper as you write. This is applicable for all nib types.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi08P7jkNOJI5sw0dJbNDr1Rw2Jeiagousqs3CQPLmEydXY9B4PDeSi0NtM7FajOmGmFaWmUQbAFjaHwAfkll0VUlccqx-WWj_2P_0LDoMPEzEf-Y4D_lb-7h9gmudLV6X_OkUnN-Dg6KQ/s1600/IMG_9126_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi08P7jkNOJI5sw0dJbNDr1Rw2Jeiagousqs3CQPLmEydXY9B4PDeSi0NtM7FajOmGmFaWmUQbAFjaHwAfkll0VUlccqx-WWj_2P_0LDoMPEzEf-Y4D_lb-7h9gmudLV6X_OkUnN-Dg6KQ/s400/IMG_9126_2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR6L9X5rg7TTfs0pj9JbRHogfj9_cXREGWbDlmHc7vagKJpLO9BgIJ_o_nxplAYu_qyz5xYOr8uXv1wdBaRz1QiWoTFrHIAtrWsI7wuRSk4ndi9yztp19tSADBmTjDEvTNMveFdw9YcU0/s1600/IMG_9127_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR6L9X5rg7TTfs0pj9JbRHogfj9_cXREGWbDlmHc7vagKJpLO9BgIJ_o_nxplAYu_qyz5xYOr8uXv1wdBaRz1QiWoTFrHIAtrWsI7wuRSk4ndi9yztp19tSADBmTjDEvTNMveFdw9YcU0/s400/IMG_9127_2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div>
You may also consider giving your nib a firm shake after a dip to get any excess ink off.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h4>
5. Write, write, write</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Now that you are done with your preparation, get ready to write, and use a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00598KCR4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00598KCR4&linkCode=as2&tag=thiscache-20&linkId=0c3beffaa0464edb0a3ce8e5e883728a" target="_blank">calligraphy notepad</a> if necessary.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
When writing, take note to hold the pen at a 45 degree angle from the paper. Never hold the pen vertically or upright - the nib may catch on the fibers in the paper and affect your ink flow. You'll probably not be able to write anything as well. Also, try to maintain a constant angle of the nib in relation to the paper. This keeps your ink flow consistent and you'll achieve beautiful lettering.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ3kF6t5UGkB534xgWz7gMHlrWLwBm9zDKXTTqs9T63ypY9u2J6MIQpW0BuXjJs365gegYPTEt1ONVVq72UNFsTijb6ncMrGw79aFSjTq-S0BUfmxVrdP0TnZCPrGvfA8FXlV7FUTw86I/s1600/IMG_9140_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ3kF6t5UGkB534xgWz7gMHlrWLwBm9zDKXTTqs9T63ypY9u2J6MIQpW0BuXjJs365gegYPTEt1ONVVq72UNFsTijb6ncMrGw79aFSjTq-S0BUfmxVrdP0TnZCPrGvfA8FXlV7FUTw86I/s400/IMG_9140_2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4xfJ5JPczg1k6j0z-eMUYENe7cwHy6PvqkHWbDn8AyX5DVBCWT4xvKJM9H0hICdQ4smg-ptWgTv0wW4QNd98kMEAURduJmwzvHs9NMpHvBk_-WRcROSaWhLd7Kcjg8oGQCG6jYZIBQxw/s1600/IMG_9143_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4xfJ5JPczg1k6j0z-eMUYENe7cwHy6PvqkHWbDn8AyX5DVBCWT4xvKJM9H0hICdQ4smg-ptWgTv0wW4QNd98kMEAURduJmwzvHs9NMpHvBk_-WRcROSaWhLd7Kcjg8oGQCG6jYZIBQxw/s400/IMG_9143_2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h4>
Good luck and keep practicing!</h4>
<div>
The most important thing to remember in modern calligraphy (and possibly, many other things) is to keep practicing. You'll eventually get better at it and develop muscle memory, which will improve your skill exponentially!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Everyone starts somewhere, and do not be surprised that my first calligraphy attempt looks like a 5 year old's artwork.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I hope that you had fun and enjoyed this guide to modern calligraphy. If you have any questions, feel free to ask me in the comments. Thank you very much for reading!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">meixii</span></div>
<span class="fullpost">
</span>meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-67518145667022433312017-04-13T12:05:00.000+08:002017-05-01T16:08:40.096+08:00Top 10 Ways to Make the Worst Fail at your Blog<script async="" data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-save="true" data-pin-tall="true" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLgUo-te5F1jh_WJE6-w_ftsbE6RVUtgs6xRwCpkOSmfmAlQPSdTBe_pFmJS6K8uxNWWyfLSb9DupA5HUglldg8b7u_4CtAONLuwrQDLRVIdLeN-hhJYj8RjnV3t4pM6U7ZQdfy7xULEI/s1600/IMG_6127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLgUo-te5F1jh_WJE6-w_ftsbE6RVUtgs6xRwCpkOSmfmAlQPSdTBe_pFmJS6K8uxNWWyfLSb9DupA5HUglldg8b7u_4CtAONLuwrQDLRVIdLeN-hhJYj8RjnV3t4pM6U7ZQdfy7xULEI/s320/IMG_6127.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>In this post, I want to share with you some methods and rules to follow to create a blog that nobody is interested in visiting.... because if we can't be the best, we could at least try to be the worst, right?</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ok so I guess that's probably not what we want for ourselves, but as someone who is very trying hard to reach out to the crafting and blogging community, I have done my own research and have learnt from other people’s mistakes. With this new found knowledge, I wanted to share a few common blogging ones.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I myself have done some of these in the past, and others I've learnt from people out there in the blogosphere and wanted to share with you. If you’re new to blogging, or that your blog has plateaued, do continue reading on.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpy5lBfOtti-WrhZTMEyAX8uOPEKfCOOyG6YUPhWiYnKodIkhcSQPxNNn_2KXJArzE9WoSGQyal-w2E4aUPK4-gR73jqEXf0flNNdydnOZ_t5Kjxd5dM9HLf7EuZcVo1lHzXTPw-ScVKw/s1600/IMG_8836%255B4752%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpy5lBfOtti-WrhZTMEyAX8uOPEKfCOOyG6YUPhWiYnKodIkhcSQPxNNn_2KXJArzE9WoSGQyal-w2E4aUPK4-gR73jqEXf0flNNdydnOZ_t5Kjxd5dM9HLf7EuZcVo1lHzXTPw-ScVKw/s320/IMG_8836%255B4752%255D.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Create boring content, and avoid including emotions </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That's what everyone says right? Keep your personal and work life separate! Make your posts monotonous and technical to make it as serious as possible. Just like a governmental organisation!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Write lengthy posts with no visuals, or paragraphing</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The more the better! Teach them all you know, and all you can. Make sure they are bombarded with lines and lines of words (of wisdom). People out there want to know everything, don't keep them in suspense, and don't bother breaking up your information into paragraphs.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Post whenever inspiration strikes/ whenever you feel like it</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Keep things exciting by posting multiple content at the same time and then none for a while. Readers have to be kept on their toes, and make them wait. All good things come to those who wait, isn't it?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Do not converse with your readers</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once again, I cannot emphasise how important it is to keep your personal and work life separate. Do not let them feel like you are a relatable person, and do not let them feel compelled to talk to you as a friend.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Ignore any form of marketing</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Oh come on, marketing? What is marketing? Marketing is for the weak. Why even bother telling others about your content or your posts? They'll come to you if they want to. After all, you have the best blog out of the millions of blogs on the www.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Quantity over Quality</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Why bother providing people with one single good post, when you could do 10 terrible ones in the same period of time? More is better. You get to reach out to various groups of men and women by touching on 10 different topics without providing substance. More viewers meant better outreach!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Stay the same, don't ever change</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Old is better. The higher the level of difficulty in navigating your blog, the higher your chance of attracting readers who wants a challenge. Improvement and change is for fools, you get it?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Cover your blog with ads</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's all about the revenue and the money. Cover your blog with multiple ads to increase the chances of viewer clicks. Put it right in their face. Make sure they see it and they click it. More clicks = more money. Easy peasy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Not proof reading</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Have trust that all your readers are highly intelligent people who can figure out what you are saying despite typing non-cohesive sentences that appears like this. Ppl can esily figur out wht u r tryin 2 sae anw.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Keep all your links and posts private</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What else is more important than all the above? Keeping your content to yourself. Its all about copyright and having privacy. Mine is mine, yours is yours. We do not share. If you want to read my post, write in and ask me. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
------------------------------------------- <b>FINALLY</b> -----------------------------------------------</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Don't freak out when your blog does not proceed the way you want to. It all takes time and effort. In the modern world of online writing and with the influx of "influencers", its all about your ability to stay true to your interests while working hard to engage your readers. Readers nowadays seek more than just a simple reading experience. They want to feel that you are a relatable person and that you posts are actually directed at them - what I call a personalised experience. All in all, just try your best - just as I am. Onwards here we go!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">meixii</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<span class="fullpost">
</span>meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-54782006087364675022017-04-06T12:12:00.000+08:002017-04-26T11:02:51.159+08:00Three-Tone Easy Passport Holder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Well... with the upcoming summer holidays, i'm pretty sure many of us would be embarking on yet, another adventure to the huge and wonderful world out there. However, this being the modern and real world, travels can only be achieved with the use of this little book called the passport.<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large; font-weight: lighter;">passport</span><br />
<div>
<div class="vk_ans" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: xx-large !important; font-weight: lighter !important; margin-bottom: 0px;">
<div class="vmod" style="font-size: small;">
<div class="lr_dct_ent_ph" style="font-size: large;">
<span class="lr_dct_ph">ˈpɑːspɔːt/</span><span class="lr_dct_spkr lr_dct_spkr_off" data-ved="0ahUKEwjdsKO1tJTSAhVF1RQKHet4BlIQlfQBCBswAA" jsaction="dob.p" style="display: inline-block; height: 16px; margin: 0px 2px 4px 5px; opacity: 0.55; vertical-align: middle; width: 16px;" title="Listen"><input height="14" src="data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAABwAAAAcCAQAAADYBBcfAAABN0lEQVR4AZ3UT4vNYRwF8M+dieS3uNtb7r1lKZPNTNlMWY13gDeBrih7L2A2yka2ItlZYWGrjBJF+VdYjEJTFsI1x9qTX/Ptfp716dmc71m2tzfGPvmibAaI+OOmiZLTdgERETtO2dMJPwVwzHVzEbsu64cVOyIAWPNCRJzVa+yjNEGGHoj4bd1/DT2XNgg6WyJeO6Blv0fSE2Tqu4iZxsBtaYPuOQTgkogPlgGATWmDiG1HAZ1vIjZI/wNEvNMBronYXFJz2HnAQ3C8+mM8BUxEbA9EvwEI+OEg2OcX5ksWVA++AozA13rwDmANvK0G37sK2ACPawX4bKUpwMlK5e4aAbjYVG6xktfP6klzVqVD7twXMbdenw5WPRMR5+pjtepG/1jV5vGMkgv/DPItU3XgpSuOaPwFsUTQA47vSZQAAAAASUVORK5CYII=" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;" type="image" width="14" /></span></div>
<div class="vmod">
<div class="lr_dct_sf_h" style="padding-top: 10px;">
<i>noun</i></div>
<div aria-hidden="true" class="xpdxpnd vk_gy" data-mh="-1" style="color: rgb(135, 135, 135) !important; max-height: 0px; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s;">
<b></b><b></b></div>
<ol class="lr_dct_sf_sens" style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 20px;">
<li style="border: 0px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><div class="vmod">
<div class="lr_dct_sf_sen vk_txt" style="font-weight: lighter !important; padding-top: 10px;">
<div style="margin-left: 20px;">
<div class="_Jig" style="margin-left: -20px;">
<div data-dobid="dfn" style="display: inline;">
an official document issued by a government, certifying the holder's identity and citizenship and entitling them to travel under its protection to and from foreign countries.</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</li>
</ol>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
So what's a passport without a passport cover that's uniquely yours? After all, the document is meant to certify a person's identity which is specific to the individual. Isn't this the perfect method to reveal your own personality?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwgJ1MJ7fWu8TewTghB_vI6c0hEfTvm136msWsWLEoMnv2ZQrzSiI5aQP516Q63yaj9cKKZnfTunZTxCxcDP0C5e7QCth-a3Dnkl-MO5aM4Xg3xBwBK07QohozRqr9wNhfim-PnSUBQEo/s1600/IMG_7648.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwgJ1MJ7fWu8TewTghB_vI6c0hEfTvm136msWsWLEoMnv2ZQrzSiI5aQP516Q63yaj9cKKZnfTunZTxCxcDP0C5e7QCth-a3Dnkl-MO5aM4Xg3xBwBK07QohozRqr9wNhfim-PnSUBQEo/s320/IMG_7648.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For this easy peasy project, I used 3 different fabrics and sew them together to achieve the block coloured effect. An additional fabric in contrasting colour was used for the lining of the holder just for that surprise factor and burst of colour.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It really does not matter which one you choose, but I would recommend that you avoid using stretchy materials (such as stretch cotton) to make your life much easier.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD5QwJXhj4H6XbGW3XP0fcTWNcHad99x-pP_ZqGg0ESAfYQjxfMVoebf3uRLj3f96Um_uwP-T1fkUb1TiA2P2rV6sL8fSmTQHi5xR-ReIeYon8Bdvmw-MIxr4RbDyASf5mR7yG0uNVvDQ/s1600/IMG_7632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD5QwJXhj4H6XbGW3XP0fcTWNcHad99x-pP_ZqGg0ESAfYQjxfMVoebf3uRLj3f96Um_uwP-T1fkUb1TiA2P2rV6sL8fSmTQHi5xR-ReIeYon8Bdvmw-MIxr4RbDyASf5mR7yG0uNVvDQ/s400/IMG_7632.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Prior to cutting the fabric, I had already marked out the size of my passport and sewn the right faces back to back to hide the sew lines.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I apologise for the lack of instructional photos... 😓</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I had (a little too) enthusiastically started on the project, and forgotten all about the documentation process. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Do leave me a comment or message if you require help with figuring out the scientifics behind it.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio6moCVz-qYXMTRgZhYyClFO2fSVnEnwEgDr9pDpqt0UQNcChh-d-z4yp-tKp5RjiWW4G-IUWqGOKdvWYgCG2nY7Ow3-lK803T6-m6JlYzJdVMvSqt3vlhhtGH1QkM0_cHl9YSCAgLXes/s1600/IMG_7640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio6moCVz-qYXMTRgZhYyClFO2fSVnEnwEgDr9pDpqt0UQNcChh-d-z4yp-tKp5RjiWW4G-IUWqGOKdvWYgCG2nY7Ow3-lK803T6-m6JlYzJdVMvSqt3vlhhtGH1QkM0_cHl9YSCAgLXes/s400/IMG_7640.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyFHSpKHCuIn09uWAEcYZY8e9tKU8WXJjEh7s44rlPBIwMwXCRzIXmFPDAeOis600nr_bFpLtM5B7I7utQMrsd-iRH7P6Nb4rzHIUVZTPScJYfVa4ehJnIpSksAO79Y6jHobHNnhL33LI/s1600/IMG_7643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyFHSpKHCuIn09uWAEcYZY8e9tKU8WXJjEh7s44rlPBIwMwXCRzIXmFPDAeOis600nr_bFpLtM5B7I7utQMrsd-iRH7P6Nb4rzHIUVZTPScJYfVa4ehJnIpSksAO79Y6jHobHNnhL33LI/s320/IMG_7643.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
To make up for the lack of step-by-step photos, I had found this really cute, easy to understand and visually appealing illustration from <a href="https://rachel-basinger.squarespace.com/blog/norachio.com/2013/05/diy-easy-peasy-passport-cover.html"><span style="color: orange;">onr.HQ</span></a> for all you crafty individuals out there. </div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Do take time to visit their blog - they have made themselves a quirky nautical themed looking passport holder with a cute metal stud.)</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #741b47;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #444444; font-size: x-small;">Just an important note:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #a64d79;">This instructional illustration from </span><a href="https://rachel-basinger.squarespace.com/blog/norachio.com/2013/05/diy-easy-peasy-passport-cover.html"><span style="color: orange;">onr.HQ</span></a><span style="color: #a64d79;"> uses only a single layer of fabric as compared to my lined passport holder. The method here would be simpler and slightly different from what I did. </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-small;">Do leave me a comment if you need help/tips to sew your cover the way I did.</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="DIYpassport-01.png" src="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/51f61f9ee4b02c290dce8616/51f62c0de4b0c70642a4480f/51f62c10e4b0c70642a44a7f/1375087752764/?format=1000w" /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Hopefully the visuals have been helpful for all of you out there and let me know if you liked this idea. Do link me to your projects if this post was of help to you.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The best of luck!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">with love,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">meixii</span></div>
</div>
</div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-53569874690224082302017-03-30T11:58:00.000+08:002017-05-18T10:46:47.236+08:00Mini Sleeping Beauty Wallpaper<script async="" data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-save="true" data-pin-tall="true" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>
With reference to the last post, <a href="https://thiscache.blogspot.de/2017/02/princess-aurora-sleeping-beauty.html" style="color: orange;" target="_blank">Princess Aurora, The Sleeping Beauty</a>, I had specially illustrated an adorable baby <span style="color: #e06666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Sleeping Beauty</span>.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Some have mentioned that the mini <span style="color: #e06666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Sleeping Beauty </span>was adorable and might make a good wallpaper. So here it is :)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEize3WfnIjLBK1y6lT-UPKQKKN_z7MltWYqBAz0CTBjQwSn83n5X1fZIye40Bz3WCjXsomRuMgNwQt6QfZtaSCvykq8pxeLkdlNTxImdwzyKLOT1qQPFwouBxBlTdqn_hwsi0erX7luLwk/s1600/IMG_8259.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEize3WfnIjLBK1y6lT-UPKQKKN_z7MltWYqBAz0CTBjQwSn83n5X1fZIye40Bz3WCjXsomRuMgNwQt6QfZtaSCvykq8pxeLkdlNTxImdwzyKLOT1qQPFwouBxBlTdqn_hwsi0erX7luLwk/s320/IMG_8259.PNG" width="179" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div>
Hopefully you guys love this wallpaper as much as I've had fun making it.</div>
<div>
<br />
<div>
Feel free to download the file below and crop it however you’d like. </div>
<div>
It should fit any device nicely. 😊</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlRr002S12FE0g5qDDWUhwhJC-eKhLljv5LRbFjduXnDQ-XV75EvsleyZAU7M3GprO4AOnezaKBgfxX-H22KcEgkPxxq5Q80riFcVVtgsgOufIuzurJV0nG47JaseioO9i5Hfi8DqV-ic/s1600/Princess+Aurora+1136x640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlRr002S12FE0g5qDDWUhwhJC-eKhLljv5LRbFjduXnDQ-XV75EvsleyZAU7M3GprO4AOnezaKBgfxX-H22KcEgkPxxq5Q80riFcVVtgsgOufIuzurJV0nG47JaseioO9i5Hfi8DqV-ic/s320/Princess+Aurora+1136x640.jpg" width="153" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">iPhone 5, iPhone 5s, iPod touch 5th gen - <b>1136 x 640</b><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #222222; font-family: "open sans" , sans-serif; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">.</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirlKRRWl83LX5iKgoERacz2nQ77jGmryCvBdWqsdDR06skeENBIrKaB1WlvsHTQM4S-eqte01tiv7_AN9d2YcIXD8N0dypuj0LAxYLSrX11zT64vrsCEJ2rbBTqbNfu-rstC_nPma14QU/s1600/Princess+Aurora+1334x750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirlKRRWl83LX5iKgoERacz2nQ77jGmryCvBdWqsdDR06skeENBIrKaB1WlvsHTQM4S-eqte01tiv7_AN9d2YcIXD8N0dypuj0LAxYLSrX11zT64vrsCEJ2rbBTqbNfu-rstC_nPma14QU/s320/Princess+Aurora+1334x750.jpg" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">iPhone 6, iPhone 6s, iPhone 7 - <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">1334 x 750</span>.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw_1VgN0B_gAbSDdGj3gOx3CvfbNooV-hvx5I8JWJ5w5qNxXvswQrjJfFspi1Ndtf-eTBiP9uXAnlQptIAnO4KutvCbxV5XusgDlJk2v8fG1T0OH48SERUc58vm_mnszThWxnQag_-zBI/s1600/Princess+Aurora+2048x1536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw_1VgN0B_gAbSDdGj3gOx3CvfbNooV-hvx5I8JWJ5w5qNxXvswQrjJfFspi1Ndtf-eTBiP9uXAnlQptIAnO4KutvCbxV5XusgDlJk2v8fG1T0OH48SERUc58vm_mnszThWxnQag_-zBI/s320/Princess+Aurora+2048x1536.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">iPad Air, iPad 4, iPad 3, iPad mini with Retina display - <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">2048 x 1536</span>.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Enjoy!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: orange; font-size: small;">xoxo,<br />meixii</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="fullpost">
</span></div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-73868309729034059882017-03-23T12:03:00.000+08:002017-04-26T11:10:46.465+08:00Princess Aurora, the Sleeping Beauty.<script async="" data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-save="true" data-pin-tall="true" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj76oWj2U-6uqdS7to3btzR28un258i_f10Wm7vqArCasRJIK8Zt9vH_hGr0l0EKUwPj8wdAlYiovrcqguyeM0QdaCYVdGztMwTGoNCPussGfZZmhPQvSHq9zkZVOOqfcCY6n3jRNmYTps/s1600/Princess-Aurora.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj76oWj2U-6uqdS7to3btzR28un258i_f10Wm7vqArCasRJIK8Zt9vH_hGr0l0EKUwPj8wdAlYiovrcqguyeM0QdaCYVdGztMwTGoNCPussGfZZmhPQvSHq9zkZVOOqfcCY6n3jRNmYTps/s400/Princess-Aurora.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Made by yours truly using Adobe Photoshop.<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">First released in </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px;">1959, </span><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Sleeping Beauty</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> is an animated film produced by Walt Disney based on The Sleeping Beauty by Charles Perrault and Little Briar Rose by The Brothers Grimm.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you'd ask me which Disney film/princess is my favourite, it'll undoubtedly be <span style="color: #f1c232;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Belle</span> </span>of Beauty and the Beast. I watched the animated film since I was a little kid and have loved Beauty and the Beast for the longest time. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now that they are having a remake of the original Disney film, I'm totally looking forward to it with strong anticipation. Eeeeks!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Image may contain: 8 people, people smiling, people standing and text" height="236" src="https://scontent.ftxl1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/16804456_10155791978009097_7521282130956413963_o.jpg?oh=7c8335a50aa91137d07c2b910c84a0c9&oe=59261CE5" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (Image taken from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DisneyBeautyAndTheBeast/" target="_blank">Beauty and the Beast</a>)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Having grown up with Disney, I have had fantasies of having a prince sweep me off my feet.... or in the case of <span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Belle</span>, to be capable of a love so strong and powerful resulting in a transformation of the heart and body. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(In modern day's terms, this means to have a man change his ways for you - usually a player or bad boy.)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So when I decided to embark on a project with the flowers that <span style="color: red; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">love</span> had bought me, it was no surprise that Disney influences were on my mind. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9vdwMO6Y6kRxt_VREc7KujMvTsWpK5DBQqgoQbSYfUA1WeCIpMjrA_uyuWGJcQDlR1ZZ0QMpjIcpBcc3MCxMccwtFumpVC3Ihj5soYvd-HLoEIjpec3IcqUy_pX2zZ-7buZHT9dOk2Q/s1600/IMG_8094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9vdwMO6Y6kRxt_VREc7KujMvTsWpK5DBQqgoQbSYfUA1WeCIpMjrA_uyuWGJcQDlR1ZZ0QMpjIcpBcc3MCxMccwtFumpVC3Ihj5soYvd-HLoEIjpec3IcqUy_pX2zZ-7buZHT9dOk2Q/s320/IMG_8094.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yayy. My first bouquet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After doing some searches on<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">G</span></span><span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">o</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #f1c232;">o</span><span style="color: #3d85c6;">g</span><span style="color: #6aa84f;">l</span><span style="color: red;">e</span></span>, I chanced upon the projects by Zhi Wei, also known as<span style="color: orange;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lovelimzy/" target="_blank">Limzy</a></span>. She is a Malaysian visual artist<span style="color: #444444;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(Hey there neighbour! Psss. I'm Singaporean.)</span></span> who uses flower petals to make adorable and unique artworks. Do check out her instagram for more inspiration!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
So after half an hour or so of arranging and glue-ing, this is what I got.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF1-l1y6RtG5mI3U91KVSEfGH_YrssPuukEjKlSwoZrzduA1meWHUR31GgGsPFvp_4D-GHnKTsf_ZvG3XQ-8Nd2j4BM0xRJwMhkGoH2fk2MQ-nThHiZNeeJyCOa3YyjQcEbgYWmvvIQfo/s1600/IMG_8254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF1-l1y6RtG5mI3U91KVSEfGH_YrssPuukEjKlSwoZrzduA1meWHUR31GgGsPFvp_4D-GHnKTsf_ZvG3XQ-8Nd2j4BM0xRJwMhkGoH2fk2MQ-nThHiZNeeJyCOa3YyjQcEbgYWmvvIQfo/s320/IMG_8254.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
What do you think?<br />
I'd really much preferred if I could recreate <span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Belle </span>in a flower dress... but the the tulips are pink in color, which would really suit <span style="color: #e06666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Sleeping Beauty</span> better.<br />
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Let me know what you think, and if you have projects of your own!</div>
<div>
Don't worry if it doesn't turn out the way you want it to. I'm sure it still looks great :)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Best of luck!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">xoxo,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">meixii</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<span class="fullpost">
</span>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4985787146851797910.post-46332874219711309592017-02-16T12:00:00.000+08:002017-04-26T11:11:05.637+08:00Stay strong, buck up, persevere and carry on.<script async="" data-pin-hover="true" data-pin-save="true" data-pin-tall="true" defer="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script>
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; color: #333333; font-style: italic; list-style: none; outline: none; padding: 0px 0px 1em;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">When I hear somebody sigh, ‘Life is hard,’<br style="border: 0px none; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" />I am always tempted to ask, ‘Compared to what?’</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px none; color: #333333; font-style: italic; list-style: none; outline: none; padding: 0px 0px 1em;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">– Sydney Harris</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 18px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 18px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;">For the month of February, I have</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 18px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"> decided to release this little project of mine to share with the digital world. I made these little wallpapers for myself to keep me on track in this harsh world, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 18px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;">but I figured that everyone could benefit from these small bits of encouragement. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 18px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 18px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;">Hopefully this minimalist and pastel themed wallpaper would give you just the required amount of boost in the morning.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 18px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;">#goodvibesonly</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.901961); font-size: 18px; letter-spacing: 0.4px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNuLw2ZjpO2ZV-_XRew5vc-F2-PsDeLiNYpX4OD1_IU4u10voDSn22TWWheHV9O8Lb8s7KRe_X36oaOFVOkaNc0g9U0XftVTPR3VZ6MRg-HOV2BGdgNdTiUCwmoXn0Ko3JJobmNpEoWrg/s1600/image1.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNuLw2ZjpO2ZV-_XRew5vc-F2-PsDeLiNYpX4OD1_IU4u10voDSn22TWWheHV9O8Lb8s7KRe_X36oaOFVOkaNc0g9U0XftVTPR3VZ6MRg-HOV2BGdgNdTiUCwmoXn0Ko3JJobmNpEoWrg/s320/image1.1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Feel free to download the file below and crop it however you’d like. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It should fit any device nicely. 😊</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_jAa8FCoHL1HkxuLHXSZVRlwZrRV-kCMU0bbp5P1u3JxeqCWuM4fO2bFCDGvQ6YPFQNgUlV89dNrNqkF1PVZH0mnydAIEYQRMILssINTjuwIMcqp1dPMwA10P7CyhfJDPeZKWjGbJhnA/s1600/Marble+%2526+Wood+1136x640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_jAa8FCoHL1HkxuLHXSZVRlwZrRV-kCMU0bbp5P1u3JxeqCWuM4fO2bFCDGvQ6YPFQNgUlV89dNrNqkF1PVZH0mnydAIEYQRMILssINTjuwIMcqp1dPMwA10P7CyhfJDPeZKWjGbJhnA/s320/Marble+%2526+Wood+1136x640.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">iPhone 5, iPhone 5s, iPod touch 5th gen - <b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; text-align: left;">1136 x 640</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; text-align: left;">. </span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJV6lrQ7-2JWbuHVdpMW-ZZeDW7lC10jtYryJ8yFfQePZk_BUT9y2r8e0QMDFJ5vd5b05-fTjJOHsyrqu1tX-drAOJ5MpKqlwrD9hMo_NorRZpi2l-1Ugx2VWLxy_kDmPNNADRCCk0kao/s1600/Marble+%2526+Wood+1334x750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJV6lrQ7-2JWbuHVdpMW-ZZeDW7lC10jtYryJ8yFfQePZk_BUT9y2r8e0QMDFJ5vd5b05-fTjJOHsyrqu1tX-drAOJ5MpKqlwrD9hMo_NorRZpi2l-1Ugx2VWLxy_kDmPNNADRCCk0kao/s320/Marble+%2526+Wood+1334x750.jpg" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">iPhone 6, iPhone 6s, iPhone 7 - <b>1334 x 750</b>.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ObhKuH2WnuJhoheYNufdXsV3_O9oeT2MX0HxejWOqQsoE5XmRQyJVxwtDGMgP7QuoCamW11zGZlFPryUjZGg0XbRZmpgzZrXGKCx_OWqY54GGfuf4w7EFmfmh4ZOcumYX6kMupNjCzE/s1600/Marble+%2526+Wood+2048x1536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ObhKuH2WnuJhoheYNufdXsV3_O9oeT2MX0HxejWOqQsoE5XmRQyJVxwtDGMgP7QuoCamW11zGZlFPryUjZGg0XbRZmpgzZrXGKCx_OWqY54GGfuf4w7EFmfmh4ZOcumYX6kMupNjCzE/s320/Marble+%2526+Wood+2048x1536.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">iPad Air, iPad 4, iPad 3, iPad mini with Retina display - <b>2048 x 1536</b>.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span class="fullpost">
</span>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">with love,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: orange;">meixii</span></div>
meixiihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556567992686485922noreply@blogger.com0